Bardstown Bourbon Company and its sister distillery, Green River, have been busy pumping out a slew of new releases. Today I’m reviewing two: a new collaborative Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon wine barrel finish, and the Discovery Series 12th edition.
Collaborative Series — Silver Oak Napa Cab Finish | 108 Proof
A blend of bourbons aged from 9 to 14 years, finished in Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon wine barrels for 17 months.
Appearance: Rich caramel and copper
Nose: Caramel, vanilla, hints of red wine, oak in the background — cooked agave aromas on both pours
Palate: Starts hot — cashews, peanuts, pistachios, leather, red wine on the sides of the palate
This whiskey is a pass, in my opinion. I just don’t find the flavors I expected from a collaboration between these two giants.
Discovery Series #12 | 115.2 Proof
A blend of four mash bills, possibly from two producers — selling out fast wherever it appears.
- 48% 14yr Kentucky (corn 75%, rye 13%, malted barley 12%)
- 29% 10yr Kentucky (corn 78%, rye 10%, malted barley 12%)
- 15% 14yr Kentucky (corn 78%, rye 13%, malted barley 9%)
- 8% 6yr Kentucky, confirmed Bardstown Bourbon Co.
Appearance: Slightly dark liquid gold with yellow-gold highlights
Nose: Soft buttery wheat, subtle raspberry, rye spice, leather
Palate: Intensely bitter opening shifting to wheat and rye spice — peanuts, leather, char, strawberry puree
If you see one, pick it up. It’s that good.
Personal Note
I’ve been a fan of Bardstown since I first met their late founder, Pete Loftin, poolside at the Beverly Hills Hotel. We sat for at least an hour, drinking and chatting about bourbon, life, and the world. He was gracious enough to gift me the remainder of a bottle of Discovery #1 — I toted it around for three days, sharing it with anyone who would let me pour them some. I’ve supported the brand ever since.
Originally published on Wine & Whiskey Globe. Samples received from Bardstown Bourbon Co.