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Bourbon Rankings

At the beginning of 2006, I made a resolution to become knowledgeable about a subject. That subject was eventually revealed to be bourbon. I taste a bourbon straight first. Then I usually like to drink it with one mid-sized ice cube, or if ordering at a bar, a “couple rocks.” I like a nice solid piece of ice without cracks – something that will hold together throughout the drink. This may vary between brands, as some are better with more ice, some straight, and some with a little water. I especially like bourbons that are not cut with water any time during the distilling/aging process. These are much stronger and have more character. Examples are all three of medal winners, as well as Bookers. Just about all of these bourbons can be purchased for under $50, with most being in the $20-35 range. Only bourbons I have had by the bottle are rated. Bourbons are split into the following sections, from best to worst, with a special awards section at the end: Medals Top Shelf Middl

The Baron's Beer Tastings

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For my blind beer tastings I use three ratings categories: Taste , Creativity , and Drinkability . Usually between three and eight judges participate and as few judges as possible are informed of what they are drinking. Many of the winners were unanimous, including the Heart of  Darkness, Wildflower Wheat and Hodad. There is a bit of a Vermont bias, as several recurring judges are from Vermont - including myself - and many of the tastings took place there. That is not to say the beers were undeserving though. There are a ton of good beers coming out of Vermont these days. That being said, I have noticed local beers seem to have an advantage, which could be a result of freshness. Suggestions are welcome! If there is a specific type of beer you would like to see get a tasting, or a brewery you feel deserves a look, let me know in the comments. Summer 2012: Random Mix Winner: Session - Black Ale Runner Up: 2 Brothers - Domaine DuPage Notes: This tasting was conducted by several