I picked up several on a trip to Nebraska this past weekend. One was an Cedar Ridge Iowa Bourbon, which at ~$32 is decent. I'm tempted to try to track down one of their Reserve Bourbons to see what the extra age yields. Would it be in my top 10, or even 20? No. I'd probably say it's good at a $20-$25 price point, but needs more age, and higher-proof bottling would probably help as well.
Another was the Soldier Valley True American Bourbon, which I picked up primarily for the novelty of the bottle (which is shaped like a WW2-era canteen). However, I'd definitely say it's drinkable. I want to give it another chance tonight to refine my thoughts; I think it's pricey and a novelty purchase that just happens to be decent in taste but nothing special, but again, drinking a dram out of a hotel paper cup isn't a good enough test.
Finally, there was a Old Weller Antique 107, which though not local to the region was a good pick-up at $22-ish, given how hard it is to find in Virginia. I like almost everything about that one, particularly the price.
Originally Posted by
ScatterX
I agree with you exerda. Every time I hear somebody say "I wish I could find _____ in _____" I cringe a little. As soon as you can start finding these things around the world, around the world will start gobbling them. The double-barrel-edged sword cuts the bourbon both ways.
Exactly. I have seen a wider variety of bourbons available in stores in Asia and Europe than in the past, but still even the good stuff is mostly from the larger labels. Yes, some bars are carrying a broader range, too (including more of the small-batch & craft bourbons)... but it's still relatively easy for me to find anything but one or two bourbons in the US--and those can be had at a cost, of course.