When it comes to whiskey, there’s a charm in the art of discovering new flavors, learning the history behind each bottle, and sharing those experiences with others. One local bourbon lover, Doug Cromes, created the Bearded Bourbon Guy a year ago. While he may not have set out to build a “brand,” what started as casual posts featuring whiskey pours next to his favorite end table has transitioned into a platform. to share relatable whiskey and bourbon reviews in an approachable, authentic way.
“I honestly just like making posts/reviews of bourbons that the average person can relate to, and hopefully spark an interest into the world of whiskey for them as well.”
The Documentary that Sparked a Bourbon Love Affair
For Doug, his love of bourbon started with a documentary—Neat: The Story of Bourbon. After watching the film, which delves into the history and complexities of bourbon, he was hooked.
“I fell in love with the history, the science, and the art of whiskey making.”
From there, his interest grew, and he began to explore the nuances of different whiskeys.
Bourbon vs. Whiskey: A Subtle Distinction
For those just beginning their whiskey journey, it’s important to remember, “All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon,” which is a concept that Doug learned in the beginning.
While he’s a fan of both whiskey and bourbon, he hasn’t yet developed a taste for scotch. Having only tried a handful of different scotches, he admits that he’s still on the hunt for one that resonates with him.
Favorite Bourbons for Sipping and Mixing
When it comes to sipping bourbon, he finds it difficult to pick a single favorite—after all, every bottle is unique. However, if he had to choose, Still Austin Cask Strength would be his go-to, especially for those who enjoy higher-proof spirits. For beginners, he recommends Buffalo Trace Straight Bourbon as a solid, budget-friendly option.
As for cocktails, he’s a fan of the classic Old Fashioned. The cocktail’s simplicity allows the rich flavors of the whiskey to shine through, making it his go-to drink. When mixing cocktails at home, he prefers using a higher-proof bourbon, such as Green River Full Proof, to ensure that the flavors stand strong even when combined with mixers.
Tips for Whiskey Newbies
For anyone looking to dive deeper into the world of bourbon, his advice is straightforward: find someone who shares the same interest. “Sharing bottles helps ease the cost of trying different types,” he suggests. He also recommends checking out local spots like Crafted & Cured and Long Shots for a diverse whiskey selection and opportunities to try individual pours of different spirits.
The Miami County Whiskey Scene
While the Miami County area may not boast a dedicated bourbon scene, there are still several local gems that Doug thinks whiskey lovers will appreciate. Indian Creek Distillery and Hayner Distillery offer distinct whiskey profiles and are worth a visit for anyone looking to explore local distilleries.
When it comes to bars, his favorite place to enjoy a drink in Miami County is Crafted & Cured. Not only does it offer an impressive whiskey selection, but it’s also a place where everyone in the family can find something to enjoy—whether it’s whiskey for him, cocktails for his wife, or great food for his son.
Bourbon is Better With Friends
No matter, if you’re new to the world of whiskey or a seasoned enthusiast, one of the most important things to remember is that bourbon is best enjoyed together.
“The purpose of spirits is to bring family and friends together. Never hold on to an expensive bottle—open it and share it with those you appreciate.”
