After a long wait, one of the most innovative distilleries has its own 100% estate-distilled product. For several years, Bardstown Bourbon Company has quietly been producing some great whiskey for top brands, as well as blending its own distillate with older, sourced whiskies. Now, BBC has introduced a lineup that is 100% theirs - Bardstown Origin Series Bourbon.
Whiskey Business
If you've not experienced Bardstown Bourbon Company on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail yet, I highly recommend it. There are several tours available, including a Whiskey Thieving Experience, as well as a lovely on-site restaurant and bar - perfect for a cozy lunch on the Trail.
It was on the Whiskey Thieving Experience where, unbeknownst to us at the time, we sampled some of the soon-to-be released Origin Series (and had a great run-in and casual chat with Master Distiller Steve Nally). Following a recent acquisition of the Green River Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky, brands include Jefferson, High West, Belle Meade, Hirsch, Calumet, James E. Pepper, Cyrus Noble, and its own lineup of Fusion blended whiskeys and, now, Origin Series.
The Tasting
Similar to the other BBC brand bottles, Origin Series comes in a tall, rectangular bottle. The ivory label shares this is a 6-year Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, bottled at 96 proof, with a mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley. This high-rye mash bill, with a younger age statement, has been a part of several of the Fusion Series.
From the website we’re expecting a beautifully balanced blend of apricot, orange blossom, and mint rests on caramel, nutmeg, and rich oak. On the palate, waves of cinnamon and vanilla lead to a bold, signature lasting finish. I found this for $49 at a large regional liquor chain. It's time to crack the seal and see what Steve has made for us.
Eye: Thick, dark amber legs are present in my Glencairn glass.
Nose: Delicious caramel toffee followed by peach cobbler with oatmeal crumb topping.
Palate: Sweet vanilla followed quickly by spice and oak. There is also a creaminess with stone fruit notes present. This is quite tasty and I find myself reaching for one more sip.
Finish: Medium-long with vanilla and cinnamon spice.
Overall: Bardstown Bourbon Company continues to deliver fine bourbon, release after release. I appreciate the 6-year age statement as well as the transparency of the disclosed mash bill on every bottle. At 96-proof, this is delicious neat, will hold its flavor profile over ice, or add complexity to a cocktail.