Dad Dimes

🥃 DadDimes on the Rocks — Season 6, Episode 9: Booker's 2026 Bourbon Review

On this episode of DadDimes on the Rocks, we pour a bourbon that has become synonymous with uncut, unapologetic flavor — Booker's Bourbon 2026 Release. Created in honor of legendary master distiller Booker Noe, this barrel-strength powerhouse continues a tradition of delivering bourbon exactly as it comes from the barrel: bold, authentic, and packed with character. From the moment the cork comes free, Booker's announces its presence. The nose bursts with rich caramel, roasted peanuts, vanilla bean, and charred oak, followed by waves of cinnamon, brown sugar, and warm baking spices. Beneath the bold aromas lies a subtle sweetness that hints at the complexity waiting in the glass. The first sip is everything bourbon enthusiasts expect from Booker's. Full-bodied and unapologetically rich, the palate delivers layers of toffee, maple syrup, dark caramel, and roasted nuts before transitioning into seasoned oak, black pepper, and barrel char. Despite the elevated proof, the whiskey maintains remarkable balance, allowing its sweetness, spice, and oak influence to work together in harmony. As the sip develops, notes of dark chocolate, leather, and toasted marshmallow emerge, adding depth and complexity that reward those willing to spend time with the glass. A few drops of water reveal even more layers, showcasing why Booker's remains a favorite among barrel-proof bourbon fans. The finish is long, warm, and memorable, lingering with oak spice, caramelized sugar, roasted peanut brittle, and a satisfying Kentucky hug that reminds you this bourbon was never meant to be timid. Throughout the episode, we discuss the legacy of Booker Noe, the evolution of the Booker's brand, and whether the 2026 release lives up to the reputation that bourbon enthusiasts have come to expect. We also break down flavor, value, and whether this release deserves a spot on your shelf or in your collection. Pour yourself a glass, embrace the proof, and join DadDimes as we explore one of bourbon's most iconic barrel-strength experiences. Because at DadDimes on the Rocks, great whiskey isn't watered down—and neither are the stories that come with it. #DadDimesOnTheRocks #BookersBourbon #Bookers2026 #BarrelStrengthBourbon #BourbonPodcast #WhiskeyReview #JimBeam #BookerNoe #BourbonLife #WhiskeyCommunity #KentuckyBourbon #CaskStrength #BourbonCollectors #DrinkResponsibly

🥃 DadDimes on the Rocks — Season 6 Episode 8: Dancing Panda 10 Year Straight Bourbon Whiskey Review

On this episode of DadDimes on the Rocks, we uncork a bottle that blends age, character, and curiosity into one memorable pour — Dancing Panda 10 Year Straight Bourbon Whiskey. With a decade of maturation behind it, this bourbon arrives with the promise of complexity, depth, and the kind of refined flavors that only time in the barrel can deliver. From the first nosing, Dancing Panda 10 Year presents a rich bouquet of caramelized sugar, vanilla bean, toasted oak, and honey-drizzled pastries. As the whiskey opens in the glass, layers of dried fruit, cinnamon, and subtle leather begin to emerge, creating an aroma that invites you to slow down and savor every moment. The palate follows through with a beautifully balanced experience. Sweet notes of toffee, maple syrup, and brown sugar lead the charge before transitioning into seasoned oak, baking spices, and hints of dark cherry. The ten years spent aging have softened the edges while adding depth and complexity, resulting in a sip that feels both bold and remarkably approachable. The finish is long and satisfying, delivering lingering oak, vanilla, and gentle spice with a touch of cocoa and warm caramel that stays with you long after the glass is empty. It's the kind of bourbon that rewards patience and reflection, revealing new nuances with every sip. Throughout the episode, we discuss how age impacts bourbon, what makes a 10-year expression stand out in today's crowded whiskey market, and whether Dancing Panda earns a place among the bottles worth revisiting. We also break down value, flavor, and who this whiskey is best suited for—from seasoned bourbon enthusiasts to adventurous newcomers looking for something unique. Pour yourself a glass and join DadDimes as we explore a bourbon where time, craftsmanship, and character come together in every pour. Because at DadDimes on the Rocks, great whiskey isn't just about what's in the bottle—it's about the stories shared around it. #DadDimesOnTheRocks #DancingPandaBourbon #StraightBourbon #10YearBourbon #WhiskeyReview #BourbonPodcast #BourbonLife #WhiskeyCommunity #AgedBourbon #CraftSpirits #WhiskeyLovers #DrinkResponsibly

🥃 DadDimes on the Rocks — Season 6 Episode 7: Branch and Barrel Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey 5-Year Review

On this episode of DadDimes on the Rocks, we stay close to home and pour a bourbon that proudly carries the spirit of the Rockies — Branch and Barrel Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey 5-Year. Aged in Colorado’s unique climate and crafted with a focus on balance and bold flavor, this bourbon reflects the growing identity of Colorado whiskey culture while staying true to classic bourbon traditions. From the first swirl in the glass, Branch and Barrel delivers an inviting aroma filled with caramel, vanilla bean, toasted oak, and warm baking spice. Beneath the sweetness sits a subtle earthy grain note and hints of roasted nuts that give the nose a grounded, handcrafted feel. The palate opens smooth and rich with layers of brown sugar, honey, and toffee before transitioning into cinnamon spice, charred oak, and light pepper warmth. The five years of aging provide enough maturity to develop depth while still allowing the grain character to shine through. There’s a balance here between sweetness and structure that makes each sip approachable but still full of personality. As the finish settles in, notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and soft spice linger comfortably, leaving behind the kind of warmth that makes you want to pour another glass and keep the conversation going. It’s a bourbon that feels equally at home around a mountain campfire or poured neat after a long day. Throughout the episode, we talk about how Colorado’s elevation and climate influence whiskey aging, where Branch and Barrel fits within the growing craft bourbon scene, and whether smaller regional distilleries can compete with the established Kentucky giants. We also break down value, flavor, and who this bottle is really made for. Pour yourself a glass and join DadDimes as we explore a Colorado bourbon built with local pride, patience, and plenty of character. Because at DadDimes on the Rocks, every pour tells a story — and every story tastes a little better with bourbon. #DadDimesOnTheRocks #BranchAndBarrel #ColoradoBourbon #StraightBourbon #CraftWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #BourbonPodcast #ColoradoWhiskey #AmericanWhiskey #WhiskeyCommunity #BourbonLife #DrinkResponsibly

🥃 DadDimes on the Rocks — Season 6, Episode 6: Root Shoot Whiskey Review

On this episode of DadDimes on the Rocks, we pour a whiskey that keeps things close to the land — Root Shoot Whiskey. Crafted with a true farm-to-bottle philosophy, Root Shoot brings a different perspective to American whiskey, one built around local grain, Colorado roots, and a commitment to showcasing where the spirit actually begins. From the first pour, this whiskey introduces itself with a balance of rustic character and refined craftsmanship. The nose opens with sweet grain, honey, vanilla, and light caramel before hints of toasted oak, fresh baked bread, and subtle spice begin to emerge. There’s an earthy authenticity here that feels intentional — a whiskey connected to its ingredients from start to finish. On the palate, Root Shoot delivers a smooth but flavorful sip. Notes of toffee, brown sugar, and vanilla cream lead the way before layers of oak, cinnamon, and soft pepper develop underneath. The grain-forward character gives the whiskey a unique texture and personality, offering something that feels both approachable and distinct from larger commercial pours. As the sip settles, touches of roasted nuts and light fruit add depth without overwhelming the balance. The finish is warm, clean, and easygoing, fading into lingering caramel sweetness, gentle spice, and toasted grain. It’s the kind of whiskey that invites slow conversation — approachable enough for casual drinkers while still giving enthusiasts something to appreciate. Throughout the episode, we talk about Colorado whiskey culture, the growing farm-to-glass movement, and how smaller distilleries like Root Shoot are carving out their own identity in the modern whiskey landscape. We also break down value, craftsmanship, and whether terroir truly matters in American whiskey. Pour a glass and join DadDimes as we explore a whiskey rooted in local tradition and built with genuine character. Because at DadDimes on the Rocks, every bottle has a story — and the best stories start from the ground up. #DadDimesOnTheRocks #RootShootWhiskey #ColoradoWhiskey #WhiskeyReview #AmericanWhiskey #FarmToBottle #CraftWhiskey #WhiskeyPodcast #BourbonLife #WhiskeyCommunity #DrinkResponsibly

🥃 DadDimes on the Rocks — Season 6, Episode 5: Crafting the Ultimate Old Fashioned

On this episode of DadDimes on the Rocks, we step behind the bar to build what might just be the ultimate Old Fashioned — a cocktail rooted in tradition, elevated by premium ingredients, and centered around the bold character of Elijah Craig Single Barrel 15 Year Bourbon. This isn’t a rushed pour or a throw-together happy hour drink. This is an Old Fashioned designed to slow the evening down. We start with the rich, oak-forward depth of Elijah Craig 15 Year — a bourbon carrying layers of caramel, toasted vanilla, baking spice, and mature Kentucky oak from over a decade in the barrel. Its full-bodied profile creates the perfect foundation for a cocktail that demands balance without sacrificing complexity. To build the sweetness, we drop in La Perruche sugar cubes, bringing a subtle raw cane sugar richness that melts beautifully into the bourbon while adding a slightly deeper, more natural sweetness than the standard white cube. A few dashes of Angostura Orange Bitters brighten the drink with citrus oils and spice, lifting the heavier oak and caramel notes while adding depth to every sip. Then comes the finishing touch — Woodford Reserve Cocktail Cherries. Dark, rich, and packed with syrupy flavor, they bring just enough fruit and elegance to round out the experience without overpowering the whiskey itself. Stirred over a large cube and finished with an expressed orange peel, this Old Fashioned delivers everything the classic cocktail should be: bold, balanced, aromatic, and timeless. Every ingredient plays its role, but the bourbon remains the star of the glass. Throughout the episode, we break down why ingredient quality matters in simple cocktails, how aged bourbon changes the Old Fashioned experience, and whether premium components truly create a next-level pour. So grab your mixing glass, cut a fresh orange peel, and join DadDimes as we craft a cocktail built for whiskey lovers who appreciate tradition done right. Because at DadDimes on the Rocks, great cocktails start with great stories — and even better bourbon. #DadDimesOnTheRocks #OldFashioned #ElijahCraig15 #BourbonCocktails #WhiskeyPodcast #CraftCocktails #ElijahCraig #WoodfordReserve #AngosturaBitters #WhiskeyLife #BourbonLife #CocktailCulture #DrinkResponsibly