Men's Journal's Blog, page 139
April 16, 2025
I've Tried Hundreds of Whiskies. This Limited-Edition Bourbon Deserves a Spot on Your Shelf
One of the most accessible and delicious annual bourbon releases is hitting shelves—and this year’s bottle is a stunner. The Keepers Release from Loretto, KY-based Maker’s Mark continues the wheated bourbon brand’s Wood Finishing Series. It's another non-chill filtered, cask-strength pour finished with custom oak staves.
The Keeper’s Release weighs in at 109.2 proof. Though there’s no age statement, Maker's Mark says that it’s the usual blend of six to eight year juice. This edition honors the warehouse team by amplifying the whisky's oak character. The result is an astounding pour for anyone who loves much older bourbon—especially the more expensive wheated bottles.
What Is the Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series?Maker’s launched the Wood Finishing Series (WFS) in 2019. It started with annual versions of Maker’s Cask Strength that were finished with additional oak staves in the barrel for up to 10 weeks. For a product that takes years to produce, those weeks of finishing might seem like they'd hardly make a dent, but the results have been mostly delicious.
Maker's Mark calls the WFS releases from 2019 to 2023 the first chapter. Each whisky amplified aspects of Maker’s flagship wheated bourbon, but a few of them were particularly special.
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In 2021, Maker's released two bottles instead of one: FAE-01 and FAE-02. The acronyms stand for fatty acid esters. Those flavorful compounds are removed from many whiskies during the chill filtration process, which prevents a hazy appearance in the bottle. Maker’s instead uses non-chill filtration—a common practice among the tastiest bourbons—which leaves the esters in suspension.
Then, in 2023, the brand highlighted its barrel-entry proof with the BEP edition. Maker's Mark usually puts spirits in the barrel at 110 proof—relatively low compared to competitors—which the brand says brings out vanilla and sugary spices. The finishing staves typically used for the WFS then amplify those flavors.
Next Chapter for the Wood Finishing SeriesLast year, Maker's Mark released The Heart Release, which kicked off the second chapter of the WFS. It was created in collaboration with the production team, displaying the fermentation aromas the workers experience in the distillery. Specifically, it highlights when sweet mash turns into beer to be distilled, which includes an unusually distinct maple syrup note. That was inspired by the process of steaming the distillery’s wood fermenters, which give off a strong maple aroma, says Blake Layfield, master distiller at Maker’s Mark.
The Keepers Release was developed with the folks that care for the oak barrels that gently age the white dog for six to eight years until it becomes the bourbon that’s blended for Maker’s. Appropriately, it’s a very oak-forward dram, but the phrase “over-oaked” never enters the picture.
How the Wood Finishing Series Is MadeEvery WFS release follows a similar process, despite the contrasting results. The blending team takes cask strength Maker's, which, like the 90-proof flagship, is a blend of six- to eight-year-old liquid. Then, to instill the desired traits—like the maple for The Heart Release or vanilla of FAE-01—they work with cooperage Independent Stave Company to cook, toast, and season the American or French oak staves that help finish the whisky.
These staves aren’t like the bowed wood from which barrels are made, but rather flat slats of oak designed to be inserted into the barrel for the finishing process. The staves are cooked to order for Maker’s to bring out the necessary flavors.
With the staves installed, the barrels are moved to the Star Hill Distillery’s limestone cellar, which remains a constant 50 degrees throughout the year. Though heat cycles and sweaty top floors of barrel houses drum up enthusiasm from bourbon fans, Layfield says that the unchanging environment gives their team incredible control over the finishing process. If you’re going to try to pull specific sugars and notes from wood, that seems like an asset.
How Does The Keepers Release Taste?
Maker's Mark's newest addition to the Wood Finishing Series is The Keepers Edition, pictured here.Matt Allyn
My favorite bourbons feature strong dark fruit flavors backed by dessert-like notes and rich oak. I’ve been enjoying the WFS since its inception, but this feels like it was dialed up to make my palate happy.
On the nose, the sweet toasty oak comes off like a creme brûlée, fresh from a pastry chef. Then, candied cherry pops in. Overall, it smells like a much older bourbon.
During a sip, juicy American oak rides across the palate, but that sweetness of the aroma returns in the finish. It's a bourbon with body, despite its younger age. And there's just enough oak on the finish to balance everything out.
The Keepers Release dives deeper into the produce aisle than other Maker’s bottles, with dark oak-backed fruit and dessert I usually find in hotter, higher-aged bourbons like Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof or Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged.
How Does The Keepers Release Compare?
I tasted four limited-edition Marker's Mark whiskies side by side to see which one came out on top.Matt Allyn
As a man of science—at least for beverages—I ran The Keepers Release through side-by-side tastings with standard Maker’s Mark Cask Strength, The Heart Release, and Maker’s Cellar Aged 2024.
Maker’s Mark Cask Strength has more of the straightforward candied cherry I associate with the brand, along with caramel, molasses, and a subtle floral spice. The nose is a touch thinner compared to the WFS releases, however the overall character is smoother. It's a worthy bottle.
The Keepers Release was finished with French oak staves, which makes for impressively divergent bottles despite being separated by just a couple months of finishing. It leans into floral spice over the underlying caramel. The fruit is lighter, with white grape and peach fruit. And there's a hit of oak toast for toasted barrel fans. It has a dry finish similar to French oak-finished Maker’s 46.
Cellar Aged was surprisingly similar to The Keepers Release. The latest Cellar Aged is a blend of 85 percent 13-year old bourbon and 15 percent 12-year-old bourbon. It has a $175 MSRP but sells for at least double on the secondary market. It’s rich with leather and fruity vanilla oak and has more of an edge thanks to its 119 proof. There’s no doubt it's a bigger, brawnier bourbon, but The Keepers Release is a smoother experience.
And though The Heart Release was one of my favorite new bottles of 2024, The Keepers Release blew past it.
Should You Buy Maker’s Mark WFS The Keeper’s Release?If you enjoy oak- and fruit-forward bourbons, absolutely. At $75 MSRP, The Keepers Release is a standout value on any spirits store shelf. It offers flavors and the viscous feel of a much older and more expensive bourbon. To describe it as briefly as possible, I’d call it baby Cellar Aged.
Related: I Test Hundreds of Whiskeys per Year. This Cheap Bourbon Is a Modern Classic
Walmart Has $170 Folding Adirondack Chairs on Sale for $75 Right Now, and Shoppers Say the Quality Is Impressive
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There’s no lounging on the back deck or front porch without a good chair, and right now is the time to be looking for one. There's been a flurry of amazing deals on patio sets, lounge chairs, rocking chairs, folding chairs, and more lately at some of the biggest online retailers. Today, there's a particularly great deal on a bestselling folding Adirondack chair at Walmart—it’s well over half off and comes in over a dozen colors.
The Justlet Folding Adirondack Chair is on sale for as low as $75 right now, up to a 56% discount from its normal price of $170. This chair is a bestseller at Walmart, and it’s available in 16 colorways, from neutral shades of brown to bright colors like orange and lime green. While shipping is free for select colors, if you bundle two-chair or four-chair sets of the same color, you end up saving on the total shipping fee.
Justlet Folding Adirondack Chair in Navy Blue, $75 (was $170) at Walmart
The Justlet Folding Adirondack Chair.
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This Adirondack Chair will be the main attraction on any balcony, porch, deck, or other outdoor space. It’s made from high-density polyethylene plastic, so unlike wood, it won’t rot, warp, or splinter when left out in the elements. Though the material is modern, the design is classic Adirondack—wide armrests, a curved seat that conforms to your legs, and a high back that lets you really take a load off. The plastic pieces also feature a woodgrain pattern to evoke the handsome look of a real wooden chair. There's plenty of space to sprawl out, but it also folds up for tidy storage when not in use. And cleaning it couldn’t be easier: Just wipe it down with a damp cloth or spray it with the hose.
Walmart shoppers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for this chair. One called it “very high quality,” and another appreciated its “attractive and durable design.” A third shopper said it’s “the perfect non-wood Adirondack at a great price.”
Justlet Folding Adirondack Chair in White, $80 (was $170) at Walmart
The Justlet Folding Adirondack Chair.
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“I'm really impressed with the initial quality of these chairs,” said another reviewer. “They are as comfortable as Adirondack chairs can be,” another wrote.
At $75 to $80 for a well-made, weather-resistant, comfortable outdoor chair like this one, it's hard to say no. Toss one (or a set) in your cart today, because we’re betting this bestseller will go out of stock quickly at this bargain price.
Oscar Winner Reportedly Said 'No Thanks' to ‘Star Wars’ Role Opposite Ryan Gosling
What do you do when you’re 26 years old, just won a Best Actress Oscar, and are suddenly one of Hollywood’s most in-demand stars? Don’t make a Star Wars movie.
At least that seems to be the plan for Mikey Madison, if reports from inside the Star Wars camp are correct. Both TheWrap and Variety are reporting that the Anora star was approached about a starring role in Shawn Levy’s upcoming Star Wars movie. The film, which is scheduled to go into production pretty soon after casting is complete, is going to be a standalone movie with Ryan Gosling set to star.
Related: Update on Ryan Gosling's 'Star Wars' Movie Surfaces
While very few details were given about Madison’s reported pass on the project, one has to wonder what she might be looking for in her next project. Or perhaps she’s just wary of the so-called “Oscar Curse” that seems to have claimed the personal and/or professional lives of previous Academy Award winners. (See: Halle Berry, Mercedes Ruehl, Roberto Benigni, Mo'Nique, F. Murray Abraham, and Marcia Gay Harden.)
Few details are known about the new Star Wars film, except that it will not be a part of the Skywalker Saga. Jonathan Tropper (This Is Where I Leave You, The Adam Project) has been at work writing the script for the film, while Shawn Levy (who directed both This Is Where I Leave You and The Adam Project, as well as Deadpool & Wolverine) is set to direct. The film will presumably follow The Mandalorian & Grogu into theaters.
Meanwhile, for Madison: the hunt for her follow-up project continues.
Walmart Is Selling a $300 5-Piece Luggage Set for $106 Right Now, and Shoppers Say the Durability Is 'Fantastic'
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Now that winter is over and the sun is shining, you may be planning this year’s travels and what to take along with you. You might wish for a smaller luggage set to carry the basics. Or, you may be looking for a big luggage upgrade to haul more stuff. In either case, Walmart has an excellent deal on a five-piece luggage set (it is marked down to $106 today) that includes carry-on and travel bags for ultimate flexibility.
The Tripcomp 5-Piece Luggage Set is 65% off today, down $194 from $300. It comes in seven color variations, and each is selling for the same price. This is a Walmart bestseller, and the set has received 150 five-star ratings so far. We'd recommend getting this set now, as this is a Walmart Flash Deal and may end soon.
Tripcomp 5-Piece Luggage Set in Black, $106 (was $300) at Walmart
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Tripcomp’s luggage set has three traditional luggage containers that nestle into each other for long-term storage. They are the perfect size for a family, with parents taking the larger cases and an older child taking the smaller. Each case has a scratch-resistant surface, an extendable handle, wheels, and a lock. The set also has a carry-on bag and a day bag in the same color as the set for extended usage.
One pleased cruise-goer commented that the “durability and strength” of the set was “fantastic” and that this luggage set “held up so well” during their cruise. They also said the luggage was good both “on and off the ship.”
Tripcomp 5-Piece Luggage Set in Sand, $106 (was $300) at Walmart
The Tripcomp 5-Piece Luggage Set.
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Another shopper who called the luggage “very sturdy” and remarked that it rolled “extremely smoothly” on the wheels was particularly happy about the color variety of the sets. They said (of the dark blue version), “The color is gorgeous and easily stands out” when compared to the other luggage in the baggage claim.
If you're looking for a great set, grab your Trimpcomp Luggage Set right now for just $106 while this deal lasts. You can pick any of the seven colors available for this great price, but do be aware that this is a Walmart Flash Deal and it won’t last forever.
Sydney Sweeney Turns Heads in Wedding Dress on 'Euphoria' Set
Sydney Sweeney reportedly called off her wedding with her ex-fiancé Jonathan Davino, but she was still spotted walking down the aisle this week. Well, sort of.
In late March, multiple reports about Sweeney calling off her wedding emerged. This came after she initially postponed her special day. According to People, the "Euphoria" actress wanted to keep the focus on her busy filming schedule.
"She's exactly where she wants to be. Most people would feel overwhelmed by her working schedule this year, but not Syd. She's all about working right now and very excited about all her projects," an insider told People. "What did make her overwhelmed though was her relationship and her wedding. She didn't feel right about it."
Speculation about Sweeney's love life ramped up after she reunited with her "Anyone But You" co-star Glen Powell in Texas. However, it was quickly revealed that Sweeney was simply attending Powell's sister's wedding.
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Sydney Sweeney attends the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Radhika Jones at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on March 02, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Vanity Fair)Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
While it's unclear what the future has in store for Sweeney on a personal level, it appears her character in "Euphoria" will be getting married in Season 3.
Earlier this week, photos from the set of "Euphoria" surfaced on social media. One particular image shows Sweeney wearing a wedding dress.
Some fans of "Euphoria" are convinced that Sweeney's character, Cassie Howard, is tying the knot with Nate Jacobs, who is played by Jacob Elordi. Others, however, believe it'll be a dream sequence.
In 2022, Sweeney was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award due to her supporting role in "Euphoria." Those who watched Season 2 know that her character has never, ever been happier.
A release date for the third season of "Euphoria" hasn't been announced yet.
Revamped King Seiko Watches Include Limited Editions and Exclusive Drops
It’s been over 50 years since King Seiko first introduced its VANAC series, and now the iconic Japanese brand is turning back the clock as it looks to the future with the addition of five new watches to the decades old collection. Inspired by the company’s home and the seemingly never-ending Tokyo horizon, the sleek and slender series offers fans the opportunity to look both back and forward with its latest creation.
King Seiko VANAC SLA083 WatchCourtesy Image
Originally released in 1972, the new edition of the watch possesses one of the more classic and seamless looks available anywhere. It mixes a bezel-less design that stands in contrast to bright-colored faces and soft and sharp angles, creating a timepiece that looks both looks carved from metal, like the Tokyo skyline, while remaining svelte along the wrist. With a 41mm diameter, these aren’t small pieces, however, their lissom stainless steel cases make them fit just about anywhere. This is also the first King Seiko watch to feature a see-through case back.
The watch is powered by Seiko’s Caliber 8L45 automatic movement, one of the brand’s finest, and has a power reserve of 72 hours to go along with an accuracy of +10 to -5 seconds per day. It is also water resistant up to 100 meters, making it an option you can wear just about anywhere.
King Seiko VANAC SLA085 and SLA087 WatchesCourtesy Image
The new VANAC collection will be available with three colored dials purple, navy, and silver, each inspired by the Tokyo horizon, twilight, midnight, and sunrise. In addition, Seiko will be releasing a limited-edition golden chestnut face version that’s also made to remind wearers of the city’s sunrise as well as a boutique exclusive edition with a sky blue dial.
All five watches are set to be made available in July with the three main releases being available both online and in stores. The boutique exclusive will, like its name implies, only be available at select Seiko-owned outlets worldwide. Only 700 of the limited-edition watches will be released. All are set to feature a retail price of $3,300, see more here before the release.
Related: Best Casio Watches of 2024 That Are Functional and Affordable
Michelle Trachtenberg’s Official Cause of Death Revealed
Nearly two months after the shocking death of 39-year-old actress Michelle Trachtenberg, we’re finally getting official answers on what, exactly, led to her passing.
As People Magazine learned on Wednesday from the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner, the Buffy the Vampire Slayer star passed away due to natural causes, with complications from diabetes mellitus being ruled as the main contributing factor.
Related: Sarah Michelle Gellar Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Co-Star Michelle Trachtenberg
Immediately following the news of Trachtenberg’s death on February 26, 2025, People learned that the actress has reportedly recently undergone a liver transplant. ABC News suggested that the surgery could have led to some complications.
In the days following her passing, a friend of Trachtenberg’s told People that they had been worried about the actress, as she had not been acting like herself. The friend reported that Trachtenberg had been “really really down emotionally” and had told friends that “she was struggling” in the past year or so.
“She was really, really sick and open with those in her circle about how much she was struggling,” the source told People, adding that “She was pale, gaunt, very thin, and dealing with health issues.”
Still, those health issues didn’t stop Trachtenberg from being fierce until the very end. In January, the actress posted a selfie where the toll her health was taking was obvious. Commenters, of course, took no time in pouncing on the opportunity to comment.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Michelle Trachtenberg (@michelletrachtenberg)
Just as quickly, Trachtenberg clapped back. She posted yet another selfie with the caption: “Fun fact. This is my face. Not malnutrition, no problems. Why do you have [to] hate? Get a calendar.”
Lil Nas X Shares Health Update After Scary Facial Paralysis
Lil Nas X is feeling a lot better after sharing that he was hospitalized due to face paralysis.
The "Montero" rapper took his Instagram Story on Wednesday and shared that things are looking better. He's back to winking, smiling, although his eye has a little catching up to do.
"OK, so I've been chewing a lot so I can get this muscle stronger. It's much better. It's much better," he says in the post. "My eye still has to play catch up, but like, I can, like, I can give you a genuine smile. So that's good. I'm still winking."
The health update comes just one day after the 26-year-old rapper shared what landed him in the hospital.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by ☆dreamboy. (@lilnasx)
"Soooo lost control of the right side of my face," he captioned the video post. "And when I smile? This is me doing a full smile right now, by the way. I can't even laugh right, bro what the f---."
Related: Lil Nas X Hospitalized Amid Potentially Serious Health Issue
In a sign that things are looking up, Lil Nas X later shared on his Story a picture of palm trees and a bright moon lighting up the ocean.
He captioned the photo, "Can't s--t ruin dreamboy summer. IT'S TIMEEEE."
Lil Nas X also found time to poke fun at the situation, posting a screenshot of the cover art to J. Cole's "Crooked Smile."
Walmart Is Selling an 'Impressive' $300 Propane Patio Heater for Just $70, and Shoppers Say It 'Works Like a Champ'
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
With backyard season just around the corner, it’s time to start expanding the possibilities for your space. Options like storage sheds and patio furniture sets help enhance any living space while providing another spot to stash your backyard gear. Thankfully, Walmart also has items like this patio heater on sale for 77% off that can help you enjoy your outdoor space from morning to night.
The EDX Propane Patio Heater is typically $300, but is now available for just $70. For $230 less, you can decorate your yard with one of Walmart shoppers’ favorite patio heaters, which boasts the bestseller tag and over 80 five-star ratings.
EDX 48,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater, $70 (was $300) at Walmart
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This propane patio heater features 48,000 BTUs of heating power, which can warm up to 18 feet of space in just one minute. With a double-layer heating grid, this patio heater is more durable than the traditional single-layer options, offering longevity and safety. For a seamless user experience, the heater comes equipped with bottom wheels that allow you to easily move the heater anywhere you’d like. Besides all of its enhanced features, this patio heater comes with upgraded safety traits that automatically extinguish the flame when the heater tilts beyond 45 degrees. Once the flame is extinguished, the gas supply will be automatically shut off for maximum peace of mind.
With quality packaging and shipping, this patio heater's impeccable quality has impressed shoppers.. “After 42 years in aviation, it takes a lot to impress me,” explained one shopper. “This is a quality product! I have already purchased two more for gifts and will likely purchase another for myself.”
“The patio heater came well packaged, it was easy to assemble, and it appears durable,” added another shopper. “The stakes to secure it in dirt, I thought, were smart so that it doesn't tilt. I am pleasantly surprised by the quality." A third added that the "price was right" and that it "works like a champ."
The EDX Propane Patio Heater is a powerful heating tool that will keep you warm and relaxed on chilly nights. At just $70, it will undoubtedly sell out quickly. Act fast before the price returns to normal, leaving you in the cold.
April 15, 2025
Noah Wyle Makes Telling Admission About 'The Pitt's' Future
The newest medical drama of 2025 came with a twist in the form of a familiar face to many. The Pitt, which premiered on January 9, is headlined by Noah Wyle (Robby in the show), who spent 11 seasons playing Carter on ER.
Longevity in the medical television space is nothing new to Wyle, an executive producer and writer for The Pitt as well. This is why when he and fellow producer R. Scott Gemmill were asked how long the popular Max show could run, they echoed similar sentiments.
As TV Insider's Meredith Jacobs revealed, Wyle and Gemmill made it known that they're here for the long haul.
R. Scott Gemmill (L) and Noah Wyle (R) of "The Pitt" attend the Warner Bros. Television Press Day.Evans Vestal Ward/WBTV via Getty Images
Wyle said he'd play Robby "as long as you'll have me," a response that had some fans already prepping for the next medical drama featuring double-digit seasons.
Gemmill added that multiple stories didn't make it into season one of the show, so there's no shortage of fresh ideas already lined up. Gemmill also stated his intention to "be here until they turn the lights out."
“That’s up to you guys. It’s not up to me. I have a reputation of, once I get settled, I don’t go anywhere, so I’ll be here until they turn the lights out.” Gemmill told TV Insider. "... The great thing about doing a show that’s set in the emergency department is every day, 100 new stories come in.”
While Wyle starred in ER for 11 seasons, the show ran for 15 seasons. Grey's Anatomy managed to set a new high-water mark for medical dramas, though, as it's currently in its 21st season.
Regardless, the excellent start and strong fan following out of the gate are great signs for The Pitt's future.
Related: Jack Black Found the Coolest Way to Address 'A Minecraft Movie's' Chicken Jockey Drama
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