“Ever wondered what happens when a whiskey lover drags his whiskey-hating partner into the world of bourbon? This week on The Whisky Friends, we’re joined by TikTok’s ‘She Hates My Whiskey’ duo — Matt and Renee — who bring their hilarious on-camera chemistry to our table. From sweet maple Canadian pours to high-proof burn, we sip our way through rare bottles, unexpected favorites, and whiskey fails.
Along the way, we talk TikTok fame, local finds, and why friendship — not just whiskey — keeps us coming back for another pour. Grab your glass, settle in, and enjoy the ride. Cheers!”
You can find Matt and Renee on TikTok by following the link HERE.
🎄 Day 25 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brought the grand finale to a festive and flavorful journey with The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—closing out the season in style. 🥃
The nose on today’s pour was rich and inviting, with notes of maple syrup, butterscotch, and raisin, making it a fitting choice for Christmas morning. On the palate, the group noted sweet, sugary flavors with hints of rye and wine finish complexity. However, the finish was a bit fleeting, leaving them intrigued but not entirely convinced to splurge on a bottle.
The reveal? High West’s A Midwinter Night’s Dram, a rye whiskey finished in port barrels that has gained a cult following. While the crew appreciated its uniqueness, they agreed it might not be for everyone at its current price point of $130 to $150.
As the team toasted to the holidays, they reflected on the joy of whiskey, the camaraderie of their group, and the support of their listeners. A big thank you to Minnesota Whiskey Elite for curating such an incredible calendar and for letting everyone share in the experience!
To all the listeners who joined along, thank you for tuning in! If you’ve enjoyed the journey, subscribe to The Whiskey Friends Podcast on your favorite platform. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok (@whiskeyfriends) for more tastings, reviews, and shenanigans.
Cheers to a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🥃 Here’s to more whiskey adventures in 2025! 🎅 Cheers!
🎄 Day 24 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar wrapped up the journey with a surprise pour that left The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—scratching their heads and debating their guesses. 🥃
The nose was funky and sweet, leading to early guesses ranging from orange Tic Tacs to Canadian whiskies like Crown Royal or Caribou Crossing. On the palate, it delivered a candy-like sweetness with a punchy finish, leaving everyone both puzzled and intrigued.
The final reveal? Single Cask Guatemala Rum, an 11-year-old pick from Single Cask Nation at a bold 56.6% ABV. The unexpected rum threw the crew for a loop but earned their respect for its sweetness and unique profile—definitely a curveball in the whiskey-dominated lineup.
As the group toasted to Christmas Eve, they reflected on the journey, shared laughs, and even considered diving deeper into rum territory in the future. Cheers to a festive and unpredictable finale! 🎅 🥃 Merry Christmas Eve! See you tomorrow for the final celebration!
🎄 Day 23 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brought holiday cheer and a warm, cinnamon-spiced pour to The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they edged closer to Christmas. 🥃
The nose gave off spicy and sweet aromas, immediately capturing the group’s attention. The palate followed through with cinnamon heat, a sweet front, and a lingering warmth—earning comparisons to a honey barrel or a cinnamon-forward pick. The long finish left a pleasant "hug," perfect for the chilly December air.
The big reveal? 1792 Full Proof, a Minnesota Whiskey Elite pick with a bold, satisfying profile. The crew debated its characteristics, with one sip sparking memories of past barrels and cinnamon-driven notes from other distilleries. At under $80, this pour earned high praise as a solid holiday treat.
As the advent journey nears its conclusion, this pick stands out as both festive and dangerously drinkable. Cheers to the crew’s sharp-tasting notes, good laughs, and another evening of whiskey camaraderie!
🎄 Day 22 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brought a whiskey that had The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—in a swirl of debate and curiosity. 🥃
The nose was immediately captivating, offering caramel, oak, and dusty sweetness—classic Wild Turkey vibes that hinted at something special. But the palate? That’s where the conversation turned. While not terrible, it felt a bit muted compared to the robust nose, with the group noting it tasted “lower proof” despite its Wild Turkey 101 label.
The reveal? Wild Turkey 70th Anniversary Edition 101, a special release hand-picked by Jimmy Russell himself. While the crew appreciated its value at around $40-$45 and the effort to blend aged barrels, the palate left them a bit underwhelmed compared to the nose’s promise.
Still, the buzz about Wild Turkey’s return to age-stated offerings and future 101 shelvers kept spirits high. Here’s to more great whiskey—and maybe wrapping up that Christmas shopping before the 25th! 🎅 🥃 Cheers to Day 22!
🎄 Day 21 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar delivers another memorable sip and plenty of laughs with The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—at the helm. 🥃
After back-to-back days of Wild Turkey Rare Breed, the crew dove into something completely different. The nose brought out sweet and fruity notes, with hints of banana and cherry, sparking comparisons to Old Forester pours. The palate? A mix of super-sweet complexity with a surprising touch of "band-aid" (yes, you read that right—taste adventures are real!).
Guesses flew fast, with Old Forester 1924 topping the list, but the reveal showed it to be an Old Forester Single Barrel Store Pick from Liquor Hutch in Minnesota. Close, but no cigar! Still, the group was impressed by the pour’s sweetness and high-floor complexity—perfect for warming spirits on a chilly December day.
And for a little bonus cheer, the team shared tales of their own barrel-picking adventures at Ben Holiday Distillery, where their picks helped create something special. A little whiskey camaraderie and nostalgia go a long way during the holidays.
Cheers to the journey, the surprises, and another day of great whiskey and friendship! 🥃 See you tomorrow for more festive fun! 🎅
🎄 Day 20 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings us another intriguing pour! 🥃 The Whiskey Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—gathered to tackle a bottle with a lot of personality and a bit of mystery.
From the nose, it sparked debate with floral hints and familiar spice, while the palate revealed a combination of rye-forward notes and a caramel bourbon finish. This pour had the group guessing everything from high-rye bourbon to straight rye before the big reveal: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye!
With its bold yet balanced profile, this whiskey walked the line between rye and bourbon lovers’ preferences, making it a memorable addition to this year's journey. Tune in as the crew dives deep into the tasting experience, shares a few laughs, and debates rye versus bourbon phases.
Cheers to another day closer to Christmas and more whiskey adventures! 🎅 🥃
🎄 Day 19 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings a challenging pour that divides opinions! 🥃 Join The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they tackle a whiskey with a nose of rubber, paint thinner, and plastic, leading to a polarizing tasting experience.
The reveal? A unique blend finished with two types of toasted oak, showcasing bold experimental flavors. While some found it intriguing, others weren’t as impressed, making it one of the more contentious pours of the calendar so far.
Tune in for the honest reviews, the laughs, and the camaraderie that keeps this advent journey lively. Cheers to another day of whiskey exploration! 🎅
🎄 Day 18 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar keeps the holiday spirit alive with a bold, intriguing pour! 🥃 Join The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they dive into a whiskey that sparks curiosity and discussion with its sweet nose and layered flavors.
The reveal? A unique expression that challenges the palate and showcases the diversity of craft whiskey. As the crew debates its profile, they reflect on how far this year's advent journey has come.
Tune in for tasting notes, spirited banter, and the continued exploration of festive pours. Another day, another glass—cheers to the holidays! 🎅
🎄 Day 17 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings a bold, divisive Texas whiskey to the table! 🥃 Join The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they explore a pour with a unique profile featuring notes of wintergreen, spice, and a touch of plastic, sparking varied reactions from the crew.
The reveal? Still Austin Cask Strength, robust and adventurous whiskey that’s both loved and questioned for its unconventional flavors. Despite the mixed reviews, the group reflects on Still Austin’s creative promotions and growing reputation in the whiskey world.
Tune in for tasting notes, fun banter, and insights into the Texas whiskey scene. Another day, another unique sip—cheers! 🎅
🎄 Day 16 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings the heat with a high-proof winner! 🥃 Join The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they savor a pour bursting with spice, graham cracker sweetness, and a robust kick.
The reveal? Green River Full Proof Bourbon, coming in at 117.3 proof. This recent addition to Green River’s lineup impresses with its bold flavors and excellent value at $40–$50. While not yet widely available in Iowa, it’s a must-try for bourbon lovers on the hunt for something special.
Tune in for the tasting notes, regional whiskey insights, and the usual friendly banter as the crew toasts another great pour in the advent journey. Cheers! 🎅
🎄 Day 15 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar offers a rye whiskey with a balanced twist! 🥃 Join The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they explore a pour with a spicy, grassy nose and a surprisingly mellow palate.
The reveal? Old Overholt Monongahela Rye at 95 proof. Known for its affordability and versatility, this rye impressed as a solid option for mixing or sipping, especially at a price point of around $30.
Tune in for the tasting notes, rye whiskey insights, and the usual laughter and camaraderie. Another day, another glass—cheers to the holiday season! 🎅
🎄 Day 14 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings a polarizing pour to the lineup! 🥃 Join The Whisky Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they dive into a whiskey with a nose of banana run(t)s and peanut brittle, but a palate that sparks mixed reviews around the table.
The reveal? Angel’s Envy Bourbon Finished in Hungarian, Chinkapin, and French Oak, is a unique and experimental release. While some appreciated its intriguing profile, the steep $80 price tag kept it from being a group favorite.
Tune in for the laughs, the candid reviews, and the debate over whether this whiskey is worth the splurge. Another day, another sip—cheers! 🎅
🎄 Day 13 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings a classic favorite to the table! 🥃 On this episode of The Whisky Friends, Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken sip on a pour that immediately hints at Buffalo Trace roots with notes of cherry, red licorice, and a candy-like sweetness.
The reveal? Weller Antique 107 is a smooth, well-rounded bourbon with just enough proof to warm up a chilly December day. The group celebrates Michael’s first correct guess of the season, adding to the fun and camaraderie of the journey.
Tune in for tasting notes, laughs, and some passionate red Vine vs. Twizzler debates as the crew toasts this lucky Friday the 13th pour. Cheers to great whiskey and holiday cheer! 🎅
🎄 Day 12 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar presents a pour that sparks curiosity and a bit of debate! 🥃 On this episode of The Whisky Friends, Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken explore a whiskey with a banana-forward nose and a sweet, mellow palate that leaves some wanting more.
The reveal? High West Cask Strength Blended Whiskey, a unique blend with a subtle complexity. While the group had mixed reactions, it was still a solid pour that added variety to the calendar.
Tune in for the laughs, tasting notes, and classic banter as the crew navigates another day of blind whiskey exploration. Cheers to the journey and what’s to come! 🎅
🎄 Day 11 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar delivers a bourbon that’s as bold as it is unforgettable! 🥃 Join The Whiskey Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they dive into a spicy, high-proof pour that immediately sets noses tingling and sparks lively debate.
The reveal? Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923, last year’s bourbon of the year for the group. Known for its rich notes of dark chocolate, dark fruits, and a hint of spice, this pour reminds the crew why it earned such high praise.
Tune in for the tasting notes, hilarious banter, and the sheer excitement of rediscovering a bourbon favorite. This is one episode whiskey lovers won’t want to miss—cheers! 🎅
🎄 Day 10 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar takes us to Virginia with a unique twist on a classic! 🥃 Join The Whiskey Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they sip and analyze a pour with notes of cherry, cinnamon, and spice, evoking memories of a classic soda fountain cherry Coke.
The reveal? John J. Bowman Single Barrel, a Virginia bourbon sourced from Buffalo Trace distillate, then re-distilled and bottled at 100 proof. This one sparks a lively discussion about its distinctive production process and its smooth, easy-drinking profile.
Tune in for tasting notes, whiskey banter, and the ongoing debate about Buffalo Trace. Day 10 is one to savor—cheers! 🎅
🎄 Day 9 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar delivers a win! 🥃 Join The Whiskey Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they dive into a pour with a familiar nose of dark fruit and a light, easy-drinking profile. The group debates its identity and finally lands on their first correct guess of the calendar.
The reveal? Buffalo Trace Store Pick from Ace Spirits, a smooth and approachable whiskey that’s perfect for sharing. While Buffalo Trace may not be the boldest choice, this pick stands out for its classic flavors and versatility.
Tune in for the laughs, the victory celebrations, and the determination to run the table for the rest of the calendar. Cheers to small wins and big fun! 🎅
🎄 Day 8 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings a grassy, herbal twist! 🥃 On this episode of The Whisky Friends, Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken tackle a rye whiskey that delivers a bold punch of lemongrass, mint, and spice. The group dives into tasting notes and guesses, all while keeping the banter flowing.
The reveal? Mayor Pingree Six-Year Rye, Haskell’s Pick, clocked in at a robust 126.4 proof. This powerhouse rye impressed the crew with its complexity and freshness, making it a standout for rye enthusiasts.
Tune in for the laughs, whiskey insights, and the occasional nip slip (oops!). Join us as we savor another unique pour in this festive journey. Cheers to great whiskey and holiday fun! 🎅
🎄 Day 7 of the Minnesota Whiskey Elite Advent Calendar brings a standout pour! 🥃 Join The Whiskey Friends—Michael, Iggy, Doc, and Ken—as they explore a bourbon with a delightful nose of brown sugar and caramel and a rich, fruity palate that leaves the group debating its origins.
The reveal? Mayor Pingree Bourbon, Haskell’s Pick, a blend of MGP distillate and Valentine Distilling’s own production. At six years old and with a punch of heat, this bourbon delivers complexity and satisfaction, earning its place as a group favorite so far.
Tune in for the tasting notes, the history behind Mayor Pingree, and plenty of laughs as the crew navigates another day of blind-tasting magic. Cheers to great whiskey and festive fun! 🎅
