Welcome to the Whiskey Information Age 

Not long ago, bourbon labels rarely listed more than the brand name and proof. You were lucky if the age was even listed.

The most important thing was that it was bourbon. Who needed to know more than that?

Well, it turns out imbibers actually want a lot more info. Like many things, the devil is in the details and brands have responded by revealing once-secret details like yeast strains, mash bills, and where barrels were aged. We’re truly living in a whiskey information age.

The latest example of this is the relaunch of Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Bourbon, which now lists not only its age in years but also months. The newly released first batch was aged for seven years and two months. You can read more about this whiskey in Gina Pace’s story for Men’s Journal.

At the end of the day, taste reigns supreme, but having complete transparency about the process helps consumers understand the process and appreciate the work behind the whiskey. Cheers!

With much of the United States covered by snow and ice—and possibly more to come in the next few days—it’s time to stockpile hot toddy supplies. While everyone has their own recipe for the warming drink, the star of the show is a big potent Scotch that won't get lost in the mix. I like to use Johnnie Walker Double Black Scotch Whisky, which is perfect for making a toddy or drinking on its own. – N.R.