Category: Bourbon whiskey Page 1 of 7

Bourbon whiskey

Whisky of the Week review and tasting notes for bourbon whiskey. A collection of all the interesting American releases I have tried.

Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 11/20/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

As the year speeds to its end, I was going through my bottles to find something different to try. A distinctive bourbon shaped like a pot still immediately caught my attention, and I couldn’t resist trying it. A reasonably unknown bourbon in South Africa, the Willett Pot Still Reserve bourbon whiskey bottle has a unique shape which drew my eye.

The Willett Pot Still Reserve bourbon is a creation from the Willett Distillery, owned by Kentucky Bourbon Distillers (KBD). Although the name indicates distillers, they only started focusing on distilling whiskey (again) in 2012.

Distilling ran in the Willet’s blood. John David Willett (born 1841) had been the master distiller for the Moore, Willett & Frenke Distillery. From there, the company moved through various generations of Willett’s until the early 1980s, when the distillery closed down. Subsequently, the company shifted its focus to independent bottling.

Also Read: Slaughter House Whiskey

In 2008, the company initially introduced the Willett Pot Still Reserve bourbon whiskey as a single-barrel release. The first batches were sourced from an undisclosed distillery, and bourbon enthusiasts have speculated that it likely originated from the nearby Heaven Hill Distillery, with the liquid ageing for approximately 8-10 years.

A significant turning point occurred in 2012 when the Willett Distillery underwent a revamp and started producing its own spirit. The description on the bottle changed from single barrel to small batch in 2015. According to Willett, each small batch of their bourbon incorporates around 12 barrels, ensuring a consistent and high-quality product.

While Willett’s journey into producing their bourbon is clear, some mysteries still surround their mash bill and the extent to which they’ve fully transitioned to their own product. Online sources suggest that the mash bill comprises a mix of 65% corn, 20% wheat, and 15% malted barley.

The Willett Pot Still Reserve bourbon whiskey is a non-age statement (NAS) release and is defined as a straight Kentucky bourbon, which means it must have aged for at least four years in new charred oak barrels. The distinctive pot-still-shaped bottle piqued my curiosity, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon Whiskey Review

I have bottle 174 of 2101 from single barrel no. 4809. I assume that this is an older release and contain liquid from the unspecified distillery.

REGION: USA

ABV: 47%

COLOUR: Light amber

NOSE: The nose greets you with typical bourbon vanilla and cherry notes, accompanied by woody and spicy aromas. A delightful brown sugar sweetness intertwines with hints of dry orange blossoms, creating an inviting bouquet. While not the most complex, the nose is undeniably pleasant.

PALATE: As you take your first sip, the Willett bourbon reveals its spicy character with pepper, cinnamon, and cloves. Dark brown sugar mingles with creamy oak and a herby undertone. Vanilla hides behind the cloves, with subtle citrus peel notes and ripe red cherries.

A tobacco-like chewiness lurks in the background. Adding a few drops of water tempers the spice and alcohol heat, allowing the brown sugar sweetness to come to the front.

FINISH: The medium-length finish leaves you with notes of oak, vanilla, and a touch of lemon pepper.

RATING: VERY GOOD

While it may lean towards the spicier side, it’s essential to remember that individual taste preferences vary. I found the Willet Pot Still Reserve bourbon whiskey slightly too spicy for my sweeter palate, while John thoroughly enjoyed its unique character.

It may not be the most complex bourbon, but it offers a smooth and drinkable experience. The bottle’s elaborate design adds a distinctive touch to my whiskey collection.

Also Read: How to pair whisky and cheese

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 08/25/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

This Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey bottle holds a special place in my whiskey journey. It was one of my first forays into the world of bourbon, a spirit that my love for single malt and blended whisky had previously overshadowed.

Back in 2013, Maker’s Mark made headlines when they decided to lower the ABV (Alcohol by Volume) of their bourbon.

This decision piqued my curiosity, and I couldn’t resist grabbing a bottle of their “full strength” bourbon from WhiskyBrother in Hydepark. Little did I know that this decision, which they later reversed, would mark the beginning of my love affair with bourbon.

Maker’s Mark, distilled in Loretto, Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to 1954. T. William “Bill” Samuels Sr. acquired the distillery, known initially as Burks’ Distillery, and embarked on a journey to create a distinctive bourbon.

During the development phase, Samuels experimented with seven different mash bills. Rather than distilling them all, he opted for a unique approach.

He baked loaves of bread with these various grain recipes and selected the most delectable one. The winning loaf contained a high proportion of barley and red winter wheat, omitting rye altogether.

Samuels, with the guidance of St. Pappy Van Winkle and the creative touch of his wife, Marjorie “Margie” Samuels, gave birth to Maker’s Mark, complete with its iconic label and signature red wax seal.

Fast forward to 1968, and the first Maker’s Mark bourbon whiskey graced the world. What sets Maker’s Mark apart from many other bourbons is its mash bill, which excludes rye in favour of red winter wheat (16%), corn (70%), and malted barley (14%).

Maker’s Mark carries no age statement; it is bottled when their expert tasters deem it ready, typically around six years old. The brand is owned by Beam Suntory.

Other releases include the Maker’s 46, a cask strength edition as well as a wood finish series.

Also Read: Jim Beam Double Oak Bourbon

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey Review

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 45%

COLOUR: A light golden copper. It seems lighter in colour than the other bourbons in my collection.

NOSE: Maker’s Mark reveals a less pronounced sweetness than other bourbons I have tasted. Scents of condensed milk, cherries, brandied fruit, toasted wood, and sweet vanilla spice intermingle. A few drops of water amplify the spicy and woody notes on the nose.

PALATE: When sipped neat, the palate bursts with vanilla spice, followed by cherries and fresh fruit sweetness. A layer of cinnamon spice and toasted oak follows the initial fruity notes. Maker’s Mark impresses with its velvety smoothness, and the flavour profile evolves with each subsequent sip.

It perfectly balances vanilla sweetness, cinnamon-infused oak spiciness, and subtle fruity hints. Adding water further refines the bourbon, making it exceptionally easy to savour.

FINISH: Long with hints of sweetness, vanilla and caramel.

RATING: EXCELLENT

What an excellent introduction for those new to bourbon. In contrast, seasoned bourbon enthusiasts will also enjoy and appreciate its versatility in crafting cocktails. Its approachable nature ensures you can enjoy it all evening without growing weary of its company.

Another great aspect of this bourbon is the price. It retails for around £32 on Amazon and I regularly see it on special.

The Maker’s Mark is a great companion to a creamy Gouda cheese. It balances the buttery Gouda with the oak and vanilla.

Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of tasting Maker’s 46, a unique release from this distillery. In my quest to discover perfect pairings, I once paired this bourbon with some KFC to assess the synergy between flavours.

Other Side by Side comparisons

I also compared Maker’s Mark and Buffalo Trace bourbon side-by-side to discern their distinct characteristics. For those interested in exploring the nuances within the Maker’s Mark portfolio, I’ve delved into the differences between Maker’s 46 and the classic Maker’s Mark.

This bourbon, with its rich history and exceptional flavour profile, continues to be a beloved and intriguing presence in the world of bourbon.

Also Read: Uncle Nearest 1856 Whiskey

Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 06/12/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

In the bourbon world, few names carry the weight of tradition and history, like Bulleit bourbon Frontier whiskey. This remarkable spirit traces its roots back to a 150-year-old family recipe. The recipe was created by Augustus Bulleit, the great-great-grandfather of the brand’s founder, Tom Bulleit.

The story begins in the mid-19th century when Augustus crafted a distinctive rye whiskey, using a blend of 67% rye and 33% corn, right in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, between 1830 and 1860.

Tom Bulleit’s journey to resurrect this extraordinary family legacy was a winding one. He first served in the US Marine Corps and then pursued a career in law. Yet, the dream of recreating his ancestor’s recipe never left him.

In 1987, he took the plunge and created a small batch bourbon that would bear the iconic family name. To ensure it qualified as a true bourbon, the mash bill was adjusted to 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% malted barley.

One of the first things that capture your attention about Bulleit bourbon is its distinctive bottle shape. Modelled after antique medicine bottles, it features raised lettering and an askew label, reminiscent of how it might have appeared in the 1860s. In 1997, Seagram acquired the Bulleit brand, setting the stage for its continued journey.

Following various acquisitions, the Bulleit brand now rests under the ownership of Diageo, and its production takes place at the Kirin Brewing Company Four Roses distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Related Article: Uncle Nearest 1856 whiskey

Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 45%

COLOUR: Light amber

NOSE: Bulleit bourbon greets your senses with a spicy punch upfront, departing from the usual sweetness associated with traditional bourbons. In the background, hints of sticky toffee pudding and vanilla bean emerge. With time, a subtle caramel note weaves into the aromatic tapestry.

PALATE: This bourbon is a rich, chewy experience, brimming with spice that never overwhelms. Beyond the initial spice, you’ll discover notes of toffee caramel, vanilla, and a touch of wood. In the background is subtle hints of orange and freshly baked sugar biscuits.

Even when water is added, Bulleit bourbon maintains its frontier spirit, becoming smoother and slightly sweeter, all while retaining its robust character.

FINISH: The finish is delightful – long, lingering, and memorable. It stays with you well after you’ve savoured the last drop, boasting bold notes of mild spice and subtle hints of oak.

RATING: EXCELLENT

What a lovely bourbon. The first sip brings spices and pepper, but on sip two, the toffee, vanilla and oak move forward. It has a lovely balance without any overwhelming elements.

Bulleit bourbon departs from the familiar sweetness found in traditional counterparts. Its uniqueness lies in its unparalleled flavour profile, making it a standout choice for those seeking something extraordinary.

Bulleit bourbon frontier whiskey is readily available in South Africa and is typically priced at around R 400. A great affordable bourbon whiskey. In the USA, you can find it for approximately $42. I have seen it on Amazon for around £32.

And if you’re intrigued by Bulleit bourbon whiskey, don’t miss the opportunity to explore its sibling, Bulleit Rye whiskey.

Side by Side Comparisons

I’ve undertaken a side-by-side comparison between Bulleit and Woodford Reserve bourbon, shedding light on their nuanced differences. In my final tasting experience of 2021, I set Bulleit bourbon alongside Buffalo Trace bourbon, aiming to determine which one captures my preference.

I have also done a side by side comparison between the Bulleit Rye and Bulleit bourbon to see how the mash bill profile changes the taste.

Also Read: Sazerac Rye vs Rittenhouse Rye whiskey

1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 04/17/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

My second bourbon for this year – the 1792 Small Batch Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. These last couple of years, I have been lamenting the fact that the variety of bourbons available in South Africa is declining.

The bourbon selection was limited to Buffalo Trace, a few bottles of Bulleit bourbon, and some Wild Turkey and cheaper Jim Beam releases.

However, towards the middle of 2017, I started noticing a growth in variety in this category. New releases such as the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and the Jim Beam Double Oak bourbon started appearing. It was great to see.

These releases were quickly followed by more brands such as Blanton’s (what a perfect bourbon) and Sazerac Rye, and now you can even get Balcones in SA. On one of my shopping trips, I saw this beautiful-looking bottle of 1792 bourbon. I quickly added it to my collection. It looked fascinating, so I researched the distillery a bit more.

Also Read: Slate Blended Bourbon

The date 1792 refers to the year that Kentucky, until then a large county in the Commonwealth of Virginia, separated and became the 15th United State. A relatively unknown bourbon even in the USA, the 1792 Small Batch bourbon is distilled in Bardstown, Kentucky, by the Barton distillery.

The Sazerac Company of New Orleans owns the distillery and the brand. In 2013, Jim Murray gave the 1792 bourbon a remarkable 94.5% rating in his annual Whisky Bible. Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes the 1792 bourbon unique.

The 1792 Small Batch bourbon whiskey is a higher-rye bourbon, with about 20% of the mash bill comprising this grain. It’s an 8 yo bourbon, bottled at a robust 93.7 proof.

1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey Review

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 46.9%

COLOUR: Dark polished amber

NOSE: On the nose you get notes of vanilla, brandied cherries, custard sweetness, and dry orange rind, with hints of fresh red apples and ripe plums. You’ll also detect a touch of oak and spiciness.

PALATE: Prepare for a spicy experience featuring pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and plenty of dry toasted oak. Faint hints of creme caramel, vanilla, and dry orange peel. The sweetness promised by the nose does not fully materialize on the palate, as it leans toward being very spicy with a few rough edges.

Medium body and not the most complex bourbon. Water brings out a bit more sweetness and tones down the alcohol bite but does nothing for the dry spiciness.

FINISH: The finish showcases dry orange peel, oak, and hints of vanilla.

RATING: GOOD

The 1792 Bourbon Small Batch whiskey is undoubtedly one of the spicier bourbons I’ve tasted in recent years. Its intense spice profile dominates the palate, overshadowing the fantastic fresh fruit and creme caramel notes from the nose.

It’s a glass that might challenge your taste buds, but it’s an adventure worth taking for those who appreciate a more spicy profile.

In a time when bourbon enthusiasts are seeking new and exciting expressions, the 1792 whiskey offers a distinctive profile that stands out in the ever-expanding world of bourbon.

The 1792 Small Batch bourbon is available online through Amazon and retail for around £43.

Also Read: Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon

Jack Daniel’s Old No 7 Tennessee Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 02/03/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

Today’s exploration takes us into the world of an iconic spirit – none other than the revered Jack Daniel’s Old No 7 Tennessee whiskey. Whether you’re an ardent fan or on the opposing side of the spectrum, one thing’s sure – this Old No. 7 Tennessee whiskey has left an indelible mark across the globe.

Born of a blend of Welsh and Scottish heritage, Jasper Newton ‘Jack’ Daniel’s exact birth date remains mysterious. Around 1866, he embarked on a journey that would etch his name in the annals of whiskey history – the establishment of Jack Daniel’s distillery. This endeavour marked the birth of one of the oldest registered distilleries in the United States.

Jack’s brand flourished as the years rolled by, propelling Tennessee to the forefront of the American distilling landscape. An enigmatic bachelor, Jack entrusted his distillery to his nephew Lem Motlow. The turbulent era of Prohibition brought production to an abrupt halt.

Lem, however, emerged as a beacon of change, assuming the role of a Tennessee State Senator and playing a pivotal role in dismantling the state’s prohibition laws.

Also Read: Jack Daniel’s Rye vs Old No 7 Whiskey

World War 2 led to a production break until 1947 when quality corn became available again. From this point, Jack Daniel’s whiskey embarked on an upward trajectory, achieving nothing short of a cult-like status. Though the distillery remained in Jack’s family until 1956, it eventually found a new home with Brown-Forman.

Nestled within Moore County, a Tennessee dry county, the distillery thrives, crafting its renowned product within its borders yet rendering its purchase a legal impossibility. A sole exception exists – the distillery’s right to sell a single commemorative product. The global stage witnessed the ascendancy of the Jack Daniel’s brand, crowning it the highest-selling American whiskey worldwide.

It’s worth noting that while Jack Daniel’s whiskey shares many characteristics with bourbon in terms of production methods, it deviates in one crucial aspect: the Lincoln County process: filtration through sugar maple charcoal before maturation. This hallmark procedure shapes the whiskey’s character, resulting in the celebrated Tennessee whiskey bottled as Jack Daniel’s.

Jack Daniel’s Old No 7 Tennessee Whiskey Review

ABV: 43%

COUNTRY: USA

COLOUR: Light amber

NOSE: An exquisite symphony of sweetness, where honey, vanilla, and toasted oak harmonize with a subtle smokiness. Hints of dried fruit and marzipan add to the intrigue.

PALATE: Smoky undertones, oak’s embrace, and the embrace of butterscotch sweetness take centre stage. Amidst these flavours, a suggestion of sour cherries and cereal lends a unique dimension, supported by fruit notes and abundant vanilla. It is quite an oily whiskey and has a full body. Mellow and smooth.

FINISH: Medium length with toasty oak, butterscotch richness, and a whisper of spice.

RATING: VERY GOOD

The Old No 7, while not overly intricate, offers a reassuringly easy-drinking and comforting profile. A purchase of this bottle guarantees a consistently high-quality and flavourful choice at an appealing price point. In South Africa it retails for around R 430 and in the UK for £ 21 (I see it regularly on Amazon on special). In India it is a bit more expensive and the price is around ₹ 4,590.

Its ubiquity is undeniable – regardless of your location on the global map, Jack Daniel’s stands as a reliable presence, its cult status well-deserved.

Embracing its versatility, the Jack Daniel’s Old No 7 Tennessee whiskey enhances culinary creations with its robust flavour, adding depth to cooking and baking endeavours.

While not a whiskey destined for celebratory occasions, it’s the perfect companion when the options are limited, say, on a plane with only Jack Daniel’s at the bar – a scenario that wouldn’t warrant too much complaint.

I paired this bourbon with some KFC to see how it would work. If you’re seeking a deeper understanding, I’ve compared Old No. 7 and Gentleman Jack side-by-side, peeling back the layers of their distinctions.

Dive into my blog post for an engaging exploration of Jack Daniel’s versus Jim Beam bourbon, discovering my personal favourite in the showdown.

I have also tasted the Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple. Not strictly a whiskey, but a fun drink nevertheless.

Also Read: Jim Beam Black Bourbon