451. From Ground to Glass: Inside Lost Lantern’s Summer Collection Part 2

In this episode of The Bourbon Road, Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter
return for Part Two of their deep dive into Lost Lantern’s 2025
Summer Collection — and this time, it’s all about the rye. The
duo tastes through a curated lineup of four standout rye
whiskeys, plus a bonus pour, delivering flavor notes,
backstories, and some playful banter along the way.


The tasting kicks off with Far North Spirits
from Minnesota, a 4-year-old rye clocking in at 111.5 proof. It
impresses with grain-forward notes, minty freshness, and a
candy-like sweetness that evolves into a spicy finish — evoking
everything from Melba toast to black licorice jellybeans.


Next is the return of Fray Ranch from Nevada
with a 6-year, 118.6-proof rye that blows both hosts away. With
tasting notes of mint chocolate chip, brandy-like fruit, and a
chocolate-dipped finish, it emerges as a strong contender for
favorite pour of the episode. Colby and the Fray Ranch team
continue to prove why their farm-to-glass model is producing
truly unique and exceptional whiskey.


The episode is peppered with exciting bourbon news, including:




The upcoming release of Heaven Hill’s Grain to Glass Kentucky
Straight Rye (Batch 2)




The return of Elijah Craig and Larceny barrel-proof
expressions




Jacob’s Pardon Collective Series — a 16-year-old whiskey
finished in 50-year-old Oloroso sherry casks




Upcoming limited releases from Old Forester, Chattanooga
Whiskey, Boone County, and New Riff




As always, Jim and Todd keep it real, sharing not just tasting
notes but honest opinions about value, availability, and flavor.
They also highlight Lost Lantern’s growing influence in the craft
whiskey space, with recurring praise for past favorites like
Whiskey Acres.


Whether you’re a seasoned rye lover or a curious newcomer, this
episode is packed with flavor, insight, and plenty of road-tested
recommendations. Don’t miss the bonus pour at the end — a
surprise worth sticking around for.


Bourbon on the Banks 2025


Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars


The Hill House Bed and Breakfast 


Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, “The Bourbon
Roadies” for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be
welcomed with open arms!