When I set out to gather a group from the Saint Augustine and Jacksonville Bourbon communities for a Shortbarrel barrel pick, I had no idea how much this experience would change us. We went in as strangers, but by the end, we were more like family.
The day was filled with excitement as we tasted about 12 different barrels, sourced from some of the finest: OZ Tyler, Beam, and Heaven Hill. The conversations flowed, and with each sip, we discovered more than just the unique profiles of these barrels—we discovered each other. A strong contender was an OZ Tyler barrel that captured the group’s attention, but it was a Beam barrel, coming in around 117 proof and an age of 6+ years, that ultimately stole our hearts. It had the same mashbill as Booker’s, and we knew it would resonate with bourbon lovers, especially since Shortbarrel was still new to Florida at the time.
The entire experience reminded us of why we love bourbon. It’s more than just the spirit in the glass; it’s about the people you share it with. We went in as bourbon enthusiasts from two different cities and came out as lifelong friends, bonded over a great barrel pick and an unforgettable experience.
Degenerate WolfPack 