In this week's episode, the guys dive into a bottle that blurs the lines between categories, proving that labels don’t always tell the whole story. It’s bonded, bold, and brings a rich history that goes all the way back to one of the most legendary figures in American whiskey!

Join hosts Mike Zika and Ryan O'Leary as they uncover the fascinating history behind the brand—including a mentor who shaped its legacy and a mysterious number that still sparks debate.

Is this an underrated gem hiding in plain sight? Pour a glass and find out. Cheers! 🥃

This week on The Bourbon Playbook, the guys dive into a trio of standout bourbons that bring unique flavor profiles, high accolades, and plenty of conversation to the table. From tropical vibes to wheated classics, could there there be a precious pour in the bunch?

In this week’s “Double Dram” edition of The Bourbon Playbook, we’re spotlighting two standout bourbons from the Lone Star State. Crafted with 100% Texas-grown grains and aged in the blazing Texas heat, these bourbons deliver bold flavors and a truly unique character.

And, of course, we dive into tasting notes for both bourbons—whether you’re looking for a silky, every day sipper or a bold, uncut cask strength experience, we’ve got you covered. Tune in for engaging banter, bourbon science made simple, and the perfect pours to add to your collection!

In this week's episode:

5:00 — Personal Pours of the Week

21:45 — Bourbon of the Week

24:00 — History (Two Main Ways to Distill Bourbon)

29:00 — Tasting Notes

37:00 — E5 Scale

Connect with us via our website: tbplaybook.com.

In this week's episode, the guys toast to some bourbon history. With roots tracing back to Prohibition, this bourbon honors the resilience of whiskey-making during tough times. From its high-proof kick to its rich, spicy flavor profile, this week's Bourbon of the Week captures the essence of history in every sip. Join us for a fun conversation on life, laughs and, of course, sweet tasting notes.

In this week's episode:

4:30 — Personal Pours of the Week

20:00 — Bourbon of the Week

21:00 — Bourbon History

30:00 — Tasting Notes

35:00 — Aging / Mash Bill

37:00 — E5 Scale rating

Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika kick-off the new year by spotlighting on a true bourbon icon: Blanton’s Single Barrel. The guys dive into the bourbon's rich history, from surviving Prohibition, to modern-day accolades, to its signature horse-and-jokey stopper. Tune in, discover sone sweet tasting notes, and find out why Blanton’s is always dressed to impress!

In this weeks episode:

2:40 — Personal pours of the week

26:15 — Bourbon of the Week

30:50 — Bottle history

36:00 — Blanton's famous horse and jokey

43:00 — Tasting notes

49:40 — E5 scale ratings

Support the pod by leaving a 5-star review and subscribing on your favorite platform! Submit feedback to Mike and Ryan by emailing: thebasementbuzz@gmail.com.

In this episode of The Bourbon Playbook, Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika explore the art of double-barrel aging and the rich history behind one of the most unique bourbons on the market. With layers of toasted oak, caramel, and dark chocolate, this week's bottle is a testament to innovation and craftsmanship. From its historical roots, to its award-winning modern profile, this bourbon is more than just a great pour — it's a game-changer.

In this week's episode:

4:00 — Personal Pours of the Week

18:00 — Bourbon of the Week

21:30 — Bottle History

25:00 — The Double-Aging Process

30:00 — Live Tasting Notes

35:30 — The E5 Scale

38:30 — Mash Bill Breakdown

Support the pod by leaving a 5-star review and subscribing on your favorite platform! Submit feedback and connect with the hosts by emailing: thebasementbuzz@gmail.com.

In this week's episode of the Bourbon Playbook, Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika cover a special pour from the E.H. Taylor Jr. collection. The Colonel is a pivotal figure in the bourbon industry that every enthusiast should know, and the guys discuss his story while sharing laughs and sipping on some of sweet notes.

In this episode:

2:00 — Personal Pours of the Week

12:00 — Bourbon of the Week

20:00 — History

26:00 — Tasting notes

32:00 — E5 Scale Rating

40:00 — Small cube vs. large cube in bourbon glass

In this week's episode of The Bourbon Playbook, Ryan O'Leary and Mike Zika introduce the Essential 5 Scale, a fun way to categorize your favorite bourbons and ensure you have the right bottles for every occasion. Zika then attempts to put lightweight Ryan in a bodybag with a bold, full proof Bourbon of the Week that packs a serious a punch.

In this episode:

01;32 — Personal Pours of the Week

12:20 — Bourbon of the Week

15:00 — Introducing the E5 Scale

22:20 — History

23:53 — Popping the bottle

27:20 — Tasting notes

31:25 — What makes this full proof bourbon unique

Support the pod:

Spread the word, leave a 5-star review and subscribe on your favorite platform! Connect with the guys by emailing thebasementbuzz@gmail.com. We'll feature your bourbon questions on a future episode!