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Kentucky, Ramblings

Review: Jefferson’s Reserve – Davidson County Single Barrel

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DSR – KY – 018: Jefferson’s Reserve – Davidson County Single Barrel Pick

Company/Distillery: Kentucky Artisan Distillery

Location: Crestwood, Kentucky

Mash Bill: Undisclosed

Age Statement: No Age Statement

Proof/ABV: 100 Proof/50% ABV

Color & Viscosity:  This bottle of Jefferson’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon – Hickory Tree Series Barrel Pick was a 45th birthday gift and was presented to me in a beautiful etched Rickhouse Ramblings logo decanter. From the decanter, the whiskey exudes a rich auburn color.  Poured into a glass, this bourbon appears chestnut in color. 

Purchase Price: $59.95 for 750ml at the NC ABC Stores

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

JEFFERSON’S RESERVE SINGLE BARREL

VERY OLD KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

VERY SMALL BATCH

Side Label

Single Barrel Hand-Selected By:

Hickory Tree Series

BARREL NO. 715

BOTTLE NO. 118

Distillery Background

Kentucky Artisan Distillery

Kentucky Artisan Distillery was founded in 2012 by Steve Thompson (passed away September 6, 2021), Chris Miller, and Mike Loring in Crestwood, Kentucky. Prior to opening Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Mr. Thompson worked as President of Brown-Forman Distilleries from 1987 to 1995. He founded Hawaiian Island Spirits in 2007 before finally launching Kentucky Artisan Distillery.

Kentucky Artisan Distillery is housed in a 15,000 square foot former ice cream plant. The distillery became Kentucky’s first contract distiller and is capable of distilling anywhere from one barrel to over 1,800 barrels per year for customers like Jefferson’s Bourbon. Kentucky Artisan Distillery proudly produces the brands of Jefferson’s Bourbon, Whiskey Row Bourbon, and Billy Goat Strut North American Whiskey.

Jefferson’s Bourbon

Jefferson’s Bourbon was established in 1997 by father and son duo, Chet and Trey Zoeller. The Zoeller’s connection to whiskey dates back to 1799 when Trey’s 8th generation grandmother was arrested for the production and sale of liquor. Jefferson’s Bourbon has always been known for being master blenders rather than distillers. In 2015, Jefferson’s Bourbon purchased Kentucky Artisan Distillery. In 2022, parent company Pernod Ricard invested $250 million over 5 years to build Jefferson’s Bourbon their own distillery. Visit the Jefferson’s Bourbon website for more on its distillery and family of bourbon offerings.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: June 9, 2023 – Neat in a Glencairn glass

Nose

Christian: In the bottle, Jefferson’s Reserve Single Barrel – Hickory Tree Series offers nice aromatic flavors of cinnamon, fresh pipe tobacco, sweet dark brown sugar, and a subtle floral note. In my Glencairn glass, copious amounts of fresh black tea permeate the air. A second pass relinquishes a gentle sweetness accompanied by a decent punch of ethanol and yeast. As the flavors settle, notes of honey, fresh hay, caramel, and spearmint are all experienced.

Mike: As I nose this Jefferson’s Reserve Single Barrel from the decanter, waves of sweet tobacco are followed by soft hints of wet oak. Next, undertones of honeysuckle intertwine with cherry and vanilla aromas and flood my nostrils. In the glass I detect a sweet punch of bubble gum that quickly transitions to dry cinnamon then recedes to a subtle acetone aroma mixed with some bread yeast. A swirl of the glass reveals notes of black tea leaves and stone fruit trailed by cinnamon red-hot candies. 

Juan: Jefferson’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon opens with an inviting mature scent of earthy coffee tobacco with a spice finish. There’s an energy switch as this quickly transitions to that of smooth honey candy. Finally, the whiskey reveals an aromatically polished combination of cinnamon, black pepper, and floral rose.

Mouth

Christian: Jefferson’s Reserve offers a smooth and creamy mouthfeel on the tongue. I am met with beautiful notes of freshly brewed tea and sweet warm walnuts with molasses sauce. Oak is present but delicate and tastes more toasted than charred. Finally, sweet vanilla and butterscotch round out this pour.

Mike: As I sip this very old Jefferson’s, it is noticeably thin on the palate upfront. Sweet honey and spiced tea lead the way then yield to bitter dried orange peel. My first impression is reminiscent of a spice used in a Belgian wit. Stone fruit flavors materialize mid-palate, hinting towards pear, and are very soft and delectable. A second pass reveals sweet cigar tobacco undertones that are mild and very palatable.

Juan: Wow, instantaneously this bourbon punches me in the face with hot herbal tea accompanied by a hint of orange peel bitter. The taste makes you feel like a lit-up fall holiday, despite my calendar saying it’s July.

Finish

Christian: The finish on this bourbon whiskey is medium in length. A slight cinder tingles the tongue and throat. In the finish, I am noticing notes of peaches/pears in thick, sweet syrup. Much like a fall dessert, the fruit is joined by toasted brown sugar and just a smidgen of bitter oak barrel char. 

Mike: This Jefferson’s Reserve Very Old Hickory Tree Series offers a medium to long finish. There is a satisfying raze of heat that sits in the lower part of the throat then fades slowly. Shades of cinnamon dusted pears linger on the palate then fade to even heavier notes of more saturated cinnamon flavors. 

Juan: The Jefferson’s Reserve of today’s review offers an appealing touch of toffee and honey butterscotch with a subtle kick of sweet malt cocoa! Amongst friends, this is a bottle that can go in a hurry. While sipping on this, you will quickly notice the conversations getting interesting and the whiskey going down quickly.

Our Rating

4.0/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make It A Double!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: What a pour this Single Barrel Hickory Tree Series Barrel Pick from Jefferson’s Reserve turned out to be! This is just about as balanced of a bourbon as one could desire. An evolving nose leads into a balanced symphony of flavors on the palate that slowly crescendo into a rush of sweetness and spice in the finish. Bravo, Eric and team on another quality barrel pick. I could wax poetic about my feelings for this bourbon, but I need to go see if more of these are waiting around at our local ABC Store for purchase.

Rating: 4.00 Rickhouses

Mike: Eric and the staff at the Hickory Tree ABC store in Davidson County, NC did a superb job with this private barrel selection. This is a very sweet and enticing bourbon from nose to mouth to finish. It is simplistic in its complexity and can be enjoyed by both the bourbon connoisseur and novice drinkers alike. The cinnamon notes are crisp throughout and highlight this single barrel selection in every facet. The unique sweetness ranges from citrus to candy to honey and provides excellent balance overall. 

Rating: 4.00 Rickhouses

Juan: If this was a bottle that I owned, I would wait until the sun goes down on the last day of the work week and put on some Blues prior to cracking this bottle open. My suggestion is to go “neat” or drop an ice cube, if you want to calm the spice. The ability to sustain a bourbon fetish can be expensive, leaving us to justify many of our purchases as a means to an end. Jefferson’s Reserve Single Bourbon does not disappoint and is a given for any collection. This 100 proof pour ignited my taste buds and checked all the right boxes. The price point is slightly above the average but was worth every penny.

JP’s Stick Pick: Along with this highly recommended bourbon, I suggest enjoying a Drew Estate’s Deadwood Tobacco Company – Leather Rose cigar. Enjoy!

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Ramblings, South Carolina

Review: Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distillery Expressions

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DSR – SC – 012: Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey Distillery Expressions

Company/Distillery: Firefly Distillery

Location: N. Charleston, South Carolina

Mash Bill: Undisclosed

Age Statement: 6 Years 18 Days

Proof/ABV: 90 Proof/45% ABV

Color & Viscosity: Viewing Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey from the bottle, it presents tawny in color. From the glass, this whiskey appears more dark chestnut to light russet in color. Tilting the tasting vessel to the side, the whiskey leaves behind a thin viscous line which develops to a medium lip. Thick beads begin to form from the lip then become droplets that slowly slide down the sides of the glass.

Purchase Price: Shared with Rickhouse Ramblings by Third Wheel Phil

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

FIREFLY

LOW COUNTRY SOUTH CAROLINA

STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

SINGLE BARREL DISTILLERY EXPRESSIONS

Left Side Label

PROOF 90

ALC BY VOL 45%

DATE BARRELLED [sic] 12/19/16

BARREL # 16-0014

DATE BOTTLED 1/5/23

Jim Irvin & Scott Newitt | Founders of Firefly Distillery

Right Side Label

DISTILLED AND BOTTLED BY FIREFLY DISTILLERY, N. CHARLESTON, SC

Distillery Background

Firefly Distillery

Firefly Distillery was founded in January 2005 when Jim Irvin and Scott Newitt decided to launch a distillery in Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina. Jim, a Vanderbilt University graduate in Biology and Chemistry, owned a winery named Irvin House Vineyards. Through the winery, Jim would cross paths with Scott. Scott was a graduate from LSU who worked for a wine and spirits distributor. The two quickly became friends and decided to launch a distillery making Muscadine Wine Vodka as their first product.

The pair would quickly learn that South Carolina State law was extremely unkind to distilleries, requiring a hefty sum of $50,000 to be paid to the state every couple of years. As a result, Firefly Distillery products would be forced to be made out of state. That is until 2007 when the duo lobbied the legislature to change the law reducing the fee to $1,500. Since then, they’ve never looked back. In 2020, the distillery opened its new state of the art facility in North Charleston, South Carolina near Park Circle.

Firefly Distillery now distributes its products to all 50 states and is building a presence in England. Firefly Distillery boasts over 20 products in its lineup with perhaps its most well known Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka leading the way.

Additional Firefly Distillery products include Firefly Vodka lineup: Classic, Lemonade, Ruby Red, Sweet Tea, and Skinny Tea. Firefly Moonshines: White Lightning, Apple Pie, Caramel, Cherry, Peach Strawberry, and Blackberry. Rums: Sea Island Java Rum and Sea Island Spiced Rum. Special Offerings: Distillery Expression Low Country Dry Gin, Firefly Sweet Tea Whiskey, and Firefly Bourbon Ball Whiskey. Finally, Firefly releases about two special releases a year of its Distillery Expressions Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: June 2, 2023 – Neat in a Glencairn glass; Then with a few drops of distilled water.

Nose

Christian:  In the bottle, Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey opens up with a burst of yellow corn sweetness accompanied by oak barrel char. In my Glencairn glass, this whiskey is grain forward with soft hints of corn, fresh pastries, and just a touch of vanilla buttercream icing. A gentle swirl really brings out the sweet undertones of brown sugar, butter toffee, and dark honey. This offering has a truly delightful nose. The addition of distilled water takes an already sweet nose and just pushes it over the top. Toffee reminiscent of the center of a Heath Bar, molasses, and baking breakfast pastries really stand out. Surprisingly it gains a spiciness with the addition of water. 

Mike: Nosing Firefly Straight Bourbon directly from the bottle, I’m hit with waves of pink bubble gum, lightly charred oak, and freshly cured cigarette tobacco. As I nose this bourbon from the glass, it is immensely sweet upfront, offering notes of vanilla icing then transitioning to brown sugar before settling into soft hints of vanilla extract and cinnamon. A gentle swirl of the glass releases aromas of cured tobacco, still slightly sweet, just earthier in nature.

Juan: After a challenging week full of stressful events, diving into this Firefly Straight Bourbon provides me with a creamy vanilla embrace, allowing me to relax and breathe a little easier. Imagine being handed an ice cream cone, before its inevitable melt, amid a summer heatwave. My senses stand tall with the expectation of what they will experience with each new sip. The beautifully caramel colored pour adds a cinnamon spice welcome. In that moment, the creamy vanilla and cinnamon spice infusion transports me to a sensation of Christmas in June…and I’m not mad about it at all.

Mouth

Christian: Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey has a soft creamy mouthfeel that has a mild oily viscosity to it. Immediately out of the gate I notice the grain influences on the palate. Notes of sweet buttered corn, oak, and a slight hint of hay are all noticeable flavors. These flavors are joined by a very light confectioner’s sugar and gingerbread essence. On one pass, I swear I caught a fleeting note of cherry cola. Distilled water really takes the nice viscosity and mouthfeel of this whiskey and waters it down. Flavor wise, I notice the cherry cola influence much more now. This is in addition to notes of yellow corn, oak, and just a touch of sarsaparilla (maybe that is what I am getting instead of the cherry cola). 

Mike: The first sip of this whiskey presents semi-dry on the palate. Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey delivers sweet flavors upfront then becomes mildly bitter mid-palate, reminiscent of light oak tannin. A second taste of the bourbon reveals elements of creamed corn, perfectly seasoned with black pepper. Lingering on the palate are notes of new leather and Caramel Creams candies. This is a very indulgent offering overall.

Juan:  The instant this bourbon touches my tongue, I receive a dose of crisp tobacco with freshly crushed black pepper. As I sip further, this spice level pleasantly increases.

Finish

Christian: The finish on this Straight Bourbon Whiskey by Firefly Distillery is nice. A generous hug wells up deep in my throat. Delicate hints of oatmeal, brown sugar, and just a subtle nod to stone fruit come through. Later, long after the spirit has been swallowed, a punch of roasted or grilled corn on the cob moves to the forefront of the aftertaste. With the addition of distilled water, I notice a little more baking spice in the finish. Oak barrel is very much present now with a tinge of bitterness from the tannin hanging around, so much so that it seems to cover up any stone fruit that was present. 

Mike: This offering from Firefly Distillery offers an agreeable strike of heat that loiters around the back of the throat then settles into the mid chest region. A deferred suggestion of cedar or dried oak is detected on the back end. Overall, a medium to soft finish for this 6 year, 90 proof whiskey.

Juan: The astonishing truth to this experience is that it only gets better as I approach the finish line. This Firefly Straight Bourbon Whiskey undoubtedly leaves the best for last. The flavors manipulate my taste buds through a river of apples, black pepper, and a hint of butterscotch. A rise from smooth & sexy to ridiculously out-of-your mind breathtaking!

Our Rating

3.39/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make It A Double!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: This is a solid sipper. A fantastic aromatic nose opens up the experience. The whiskey has an enjoyable texture that displays the work of 6 years resting in a barrel. The mouth is sweet with a nod to traditional bourbon flavors but ramped up with additional sweetness. A nice, bordering subdued finish completes an approachable drinking experience that will be enjoyed by many. I think we may have a little hidden secret here–shush, don’t let it get out too much. I would love to try this expression in one of the barrel proof versions released by Firefly a couple times a year. Overall, a quality Straight Bourbon Whiskey that I would have no problem having on my shelf to share with good friends.

Rating: 3.40 Rickhouses

Mike: This is a modest offering from Firefly. It hits the typical bourbon flavor profile but on the sweeter side. On the palate, this whiskey is surprisingly subdued to carry a 6 year age statement and perhaps the proof plays a part in that. While flavorful, I was hoping for a more robust experience. I’m unsure of the char level in the barrel this distillery uses, but I’d guess it is on the lighter side. All said, I did enjoy this whiskey and would keep this on the bar for guests looking for a lighter and sweeter option.

Rating: 3.375 Rickhouses

Juan: Since I’m new to reviewing, you may not know this about me: I enjoy a fresh spray of cologne in most social situations. Firefly Straight Bourbon is akin to giving yourself a refreshing spritz of cologne before heading out to dinner. There’s a sense of a confident I’ve got this attitude that makes you feel like you can conquer anything when drinking this bourbon. If you pour this, I promise that you’re in for a very satisfying evening.Be the King/Queen of the night by bringing this bottle to the gathering. Creamy vanilla dripping down the sides of a cinnamon spice infused apple…sounds delicious! I recommend this one to all bourbon/whiskey drinkers. JP’s Stick Pick: I suggest enjoying this bourbon with a Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary “Champagne” Cigar. Happy drinking and/or smoking!

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North Carolina, Ramblings

Review: SGD Conviction Amarone Valpolicella Cask

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DSR – NC – 025: SGD Conviction Amarone Valpolicella Cask

Company/Distillery: Southern Grace Distilleries Inc.

Location: Mount Pleasant, NC

Mash Bill: 88% Corn and 12% Malted Barley

Age Statement: 2 Years Old. Finished in Amarone Valpolicella Cask for just over 1 year.

Proof/ABV: 104.8 Proof/52.4 ABV

Color and Viscosity: From the bottle, Conviction Amarone Valpolicella Cask finished bourbon presents auburn in color. Viewing this whiskey from the glass, a russet hue is observed. As the whiskey is tilted in the Glencairn glass, a sharp viscous line develops that transitions to pin head beads.

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

SGD

CONVICTION Amarone Valpolicella Cask

STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY FINISHED IN AMARONE CASKS

TWO YEARS OLD BARREL PROOF

UNFILTERED AND UNCUT

104.8 Proof/52.4 ALC./VOL.

LIMITED RELEASE

Back Label

CONVICTION AMARONE CASK

Amarone Della Valplicella, from Verona, Italy, is fermented from grapes that have been rack-dried for up to four months prior to fermentation, concentrating the natural grape sugars and flavors. Amarone is then aged in oak casks for years. Conviction Straight Bourbon Whiskey has been finished in one of these casks, infusing the bourbon with the complex and dark rich flavors that make Amarone a distinctive and cherished wine the world over. Please always drink responsibly.

Distilled, Aged, Finished and Bottled at SOUTHERN GRACE DISTILLERIES in Mount Pleasant NC

Distillery Background

Southern Grace Distilleries Inc.

In 2014, Southern Grace Distilleries co-founders Leanne Powell (who recently passed away on July 20, 2019) and Thomas Thacker found themselves transitioning out of careers in congressional offices and politics; their new career choice leading them in a completely different direction. Both had noticed the explosion and success of North Carolina craft breweries and wineries in recent years. They believed there was a chance that craft distilling would see a similar boom in the near future. Together they decided to launch Southern Grace Distilleries at the Warren C. Coleman Mill in Concord, North Carolina. Distilling began in August 2014 and the distillery’s first product, Sun Dog 130 Corn Whiskey, was shipped in January 2015. The distillery would quickly outgrow the mill. By 2016, they would move to their Mt. Pleasant, NC facility, affectionately coined Whiskey Prison.

Whiskey Prison was formally known as the Cabarrus County Correctional Facility. The facility, built in 1929, could hold up to 400 inmates when at full capacity. The prison closed in 2011 and sat abandoned until Southern Grace Distilleries began to occupy the property. Today, Southern Grace uses the old dormitory of the facility as its barrel house. The prison’s chapel and check-in center operate as the facility’s welcome centers while the newer dormitory is the site of the distilling.

Sebastian Correa is currently the Master Distiller at Southern Grace. Mr. Correa is a native of Winston-Salem, NC where he attended RJ Reynolds High School before going to Appalachian State University. Mr. Correa graduated from App State with a Bachelor of Science in Fermentation Science.

In addition to SGD Conviction Amarone Valpolicella Cask, Southern Grace Distilleries also produces Conviction Hand-Crafted Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, Conviction Double Oaked 1929 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, SGD Conviction Cask Strength Founder’s Reserve, SGD Conviction Naranja, SGD Conviction Oloroso Sherry Cask, SGD Conviction Cognac Cask, Conviction Toast Cask Finish, Sun Dog 130 American Small Batch Corn Whiskey, Sun Dog Pink Lemonade, and Conviction White Dog.

For more information on Southern Grace Distilleries and how to visit Whiskey Prison visit their website.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: June 2, 2023 – Neat in a Glencairn glass; then with a splash of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: A quick nose of this bottle of Conviction Amarone Valpolicella Cask opens up your senses with a unique aromatic display of sweet grapes, dry red wine, and a touch of tart balsamic vinegar. A second pass allows notes of oak barrel char and star anise–something I find standard in Conviction products I have experienced. In my Glencairn glass, this finished whiskey smells very sweet. The wine influence jumps from the glass before giving way to very subtle hints of molasses and croissant pastry. A second whiff introduces a butteriness along with grapes, dark cherry, and almonds. Adding a few drops of distilled water really brings forth the grape jelly aromas. Dark brown sugar and pastry dough all remain a constant in the nose.

Mike: Nosing this bourbon from the bottle, I’m immediately met with fresh pressed grape juice that gives way to lightly charred oak staves. A second take provides more of the same but with a tart citrus rind aroma pushing through. In the glass there are heavy undertones of model glue upfront, transitioning to rich malt vinegar scents. Allowing this bourbon to breathe in the glass a bit, aromas of berry wine and moistened chewing tobacco develop nicely. Overall, the nose is quite pungent and exotic!

Juan: As I approach the bottle to take a deep inhale, there is an immediate conviction (no pun intended) to my love of caramel & dark chocolate. It twists a nostalgic memory of old whiskey into a modern thought of a newly found bourbon experience.

Mouth

Christian: This Conviction Amarone Valpolicella Cask Finish Bourbon has a creamy mouthfeel with decent viscosity. The first flavors I notice are copious amounts of faux leather, star anise, and alcohol. A second sip brings more alcohol in different forms – sometimes I think of cherry cough syrup. Amarone Valpolicella is known for being a high octane, heavy alcohol content wine. You really can see its influence here. Distilled water really doesn’t change the taste profile here. Star anise, leather, and simple syrup remain persistent.

Mike: My first sip of this Conviction cask finish bourbon hits heavy with tobacco flavors that coat the palate. A bouquet of mixed berries and cocoa nibs, reminiscent of Brookside acai and blueberry dark chocolate candy. The dark chocolate aromas persist then fade to hints of bitter charred oak. A second pass at this whiskey produces dark honey and softened brown sugar tones, with a touch of browned butter. A slight bitter leather tannin flavor lingers on the back end, but is not displeasing. Overall, a very rich and flavorful palate.

Juan: The transition from scent to taste creates a touch of citrus (perhaps orange) and blackberry that start to engage my senses with an intense jolt of spice. The smooth pour into the glass discharges cedar notes that penetrate through with a drop of pine. As I continue to enjoy this bourbon, it begins to usher me to the flavors of straight black coffee with a hint of leather flavor.

Finish

Christian: This bourbon is leaning long in the finish and is super dry as it leaves my palate begging for a drop of water. A light warmth ignites in my throat and builds deep into my chest. There is a bitterness of the wine, oak barrel char, and star anise that stands strong here in the finish. Long after the whiskey has been swallowed a sweetness from the grapes rejoins the experience. Distilled water does not prevent this whiskey from maintaining a bold sharp finish. Dryness remains the name of the game here. Sweet wine, star anise, and leather are all present.

Mike: Medium to long finish on this offering from Southern Grace Distillery. The heat provides a subtle warmth to the back of the throat and palate then dissipates, only to reemerge with vengeance in the mid-chest region, where it persists beautifully. There is a delightful dark berry medley that lingers on the palate.

Juan: The grand finale leaves me feeling a little empty despite my desire for a strong finish due to this bourbon’s 103.4 proof. While its smooth sexy touch of raw moonshine causes an arousal of the senses, there is a missing force of spice. It strands me on the side of the road with a buttery maple syrup bite waiting for climax to drive by and take me home. Overall, the flavors and finish are satisfying enough for a return visit.

Our Rating

3.012/5 – “Make it neat!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: It seems to me that what Southern Grace Distillery has created with this Amarone Valpolicella finished straight bourbon is a polarizing drinking experience. Some folks, like Mike, are going to absolutely dig this offering. Others, like myself, will find the flavors and wine influence to simply be too much. The significant notes of star anise, leather, and poignant alcohol is just not for me, but don’t let that stop you from trying it, you might really dig it.

Rating: 2.40 Rickhouses

Mike: This is such a unique offering from Southern Grace Distillery! Let this one breathe a little before enjoying it. The flavors are rich and bold, becoming somewhat dry on the finish. Robust undertones of dark chocolate and berries carry through from start to finish with just enough intermingling of sweet tobacco notes to balance things out. I like this pour from Southern Grace Distillery, though not an everyday drinker, its distinctiveness sets it far apart from any cask finished whiskey I’ve sampled to date.

Rating: 3.625 Rickhouses

Juan: As a known lover to Straight Bourbon Whiskey two years and older, Conviction Amarone has the potential to encourage a strong relationship due to its smooth finish. The caramel chocolate in the intro is a true highlight in this sample. Tasting from the glass provides a gentle kiss to remember. I recommend this one to a bourbon drinking beginner. JP’s Stick Pick: If you wish to enjoy a smoke with this bottle, I recommend a Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary “Maduro” Cigar. Happy drinking!

Special thanks to Third Wheel Phil for picking up this bottle for us after his ghost tour of Southern Grace Distillery!

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Other States, Ramblings

Review: Ghost Coast Bottled-In-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 5th Anniversary Edition

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DSR – GA – 001: Ghost Coast Bottled-In-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey – 5th Anniversary Edition

Company/Distillery: Ghost Coast Distillery, LLC

Location: Savannah, Georgia

Mash Bill: Rye Mash Bill fermented with a traditional American whiskey yeast.

Age Statement: Bottled-In-Bond, Minimum of 4 years; Website indicates 56 months.

Proof/ABV: 100 Proof/50% ABV

Color & Viscosity: From the bottle, this bourbon offers up a dark mahogany hue. From the glass, this Ghost Coast bourbon presents a soft auburn color. Legs appear rapidly as the glass is tilted to the side and the residual whiskey left behind is quick to glide down the tasting vessel. The viscous line remaining is of medium thickness. 

Purchase Price: Approximately $55 from the distillery

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“Ghost Coast Distillery”

“Straight Bourbon Whiskey”

“Bottled In Bond”

“Distilled and bottled by Ghost Coast Distillery, LLC, Savannah, GA”

“100 Proof | Distilled From Grains | DSP-GA-20017”

Right Side Label

“For Recipes, Ideas, and Spirit Guidance Visit ghoastcoastdistillery.com“

Left Side Label

“5 Anniversary Edition | GC”

“Ken Klehm – Distiller’s Mark”

Distillery Background

Ghost Coast Distillery, LLC

Tucked away in the historic town of Savannah, Georgia, just a short walk from the Savannah River, lies Ghost Coast Distillery. Founded in 2017, Ghost Coast Distillery is the creation of friends and co-founders Rob Ingersoll and Chris Sywassink. They also hold the title of Savannah’s first legal distillery since prohibition. Mr. Ingersoll and Mr. Sywassink, who first met at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, developed the business plan for Ghost Coast Distillery over a 36 month period that included taking in depth distilling courses at Moonshine University of Louisville, Kentucky. The name Ghost Coast Distillery is a nod to the history of Savannah, a city that dates back to 1733 and is known for its historic coastal roots and paranormal activity. 

Ghost Coast Distillery is located in a 17,000 sq. ft. facility on Indian Street in the historic district of Savannah. The distillery includes a large tasting room and retail space along with the operations center of the distillery. Head Distiller, Ken Klehm, and his assistant distiller Zoe Emerson, distill spirits using a 500-gallon Vendome hybrid copper pot still designed by Vendome Copper & Brass Works Incorporated of Louisville, Kentucky. The distillery also houses an approximate 900 barrel rickhouse that is without temperature control, allowing the natural temperature fluctuations of Savannah to directly influence the aging of their products. 

In addition to the Ghost Coast 5-Year Anniversary Bottled-In-Bond Bourbon Whiskey of this review, the distillery also produces Master Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Peach, Ginger, and Honey Flavored Whiskies, Vodka and Orange Flavored Vodka, Tiki Spiced Rum, Burl Gin, Daisy Maze Grain Spirit, and several liqueurs. For more information, be sure to check out the Ghost Coast Distillery website.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: July 30, 2022 – Neat in Glencairn Glass; Then with a few added drops of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: In the bottle, Ghost Coast Bottled-In-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey opens with a nice rich cigar tobacco aroma. This is accompanied, unexpectedly so, by a light sweet wine essence. There are loads of tobacco and sweet fermented fruit influencing the nose from the bottle. In my glass, I pick up subtle hints of freshly baked pie crust, cinnamon, crumble, and dehydrated fruit. A gentle swirl unleashes a tinge of tobacco joined by some baking spice. This nose transitions nicely with lots of complexity; every time I return the glass to my nose I get something different. One last pass allows tobacco and red wine to permeate from the glass. The addition of a few drops of distilled water adds a caramel syrup sweetness to the nose that was not present prior.

Mike: As I nose this whiskey from the bottle, it hits heavy with cigar tobacco and hints of a Spanish cedar lined humidor, very aromatic and enticing. As the cigar and cedar aromas fade, an essence of dark berries, or perhaps cherries, emerge. From the tasting vessel, the nose presents crisp and dry. Soft hints of dried apple slices develop with a gentle swirl then mingle together with a touch of white pepper zest and baking spices. As I let the glass settle then re-approach, fresh cured tobacco with a suggestion of brandy fills the air.

Mouth

Christian: The mouthfeel on this offering from Ghost Coast has a nice body and viscosity that gently coats the tongue. Wow, this pour hits on the tip of your tongue with the sweetness of red grapes and wine. The sweetness quickly gives way to more traditional flavors of leather and cigar tobacco. A second sip allows additional notes of fresh oatmeal with cinnamon and caramel drizzle to seep into the experience. Lots of flavor here, but overall it seems to have a rye influence, with a slight hit of black pepper and possible clove sneaking into every taste. Distilled water allows this pour to really take on the tannin of the oak barrel. So many of the complexities experienced as intended by the distiller at 100 proof, fade away with this addition of water.

Mike: This Ghost Coast Anniversary Bourbon is sweet upfront and smacks with a punch of cinnamon and old leather mid-palate. A Second pass reveals an agreeable sweet honeyed apple quality that closes with a touch of leather and surmounting saccharinity.

Finish

Christian: This Ghost Coast Bottled-In-Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey has a nice medium finish that adequately allows the 100 proof to show without being overly abrasive. A nice ember forms deep in my chest and sits for a short period of time before going away. In the finish, I am picking up a nice stone fruit (more apricot than peach) jam flavor that is very cobbler-esque. This nicely complements the baking spices brought on by the rye grain used in distillation. Long after the whiskey is enjoyed, a honey sweetness lingers on the palate alongside a note of oak char bringing this pour to a happy ending. The distilled water subdues a finish that was quite pleasant as it was, straight from the bottle.

Mike: There is a mild finish for this 100-proof bourbon out of Savannah, Georgia. New oak, a touch of tobacco leaf, and baking spices linger as a gentle cinder persists in the chest. There is a nice minty tingle left behind in the mouth. 

Our Rating

3.59/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make it Neat, Please!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: This is a very nice sipping whiskey that is fitting for Ghost Coast’s 5th Anniversary Celebration. There is a generous amount of complexity here that provides an exceptional nose, leading to a flavor profile that follows suit. The base of this pour is traditional in nature, but I absolutely love the unexpected sweet fermented fruit notes that come through in both the nose and the finish. What Ghost Coast Distillery has been able to accomplish in this Anniversary Edition is a complete drinking experience offering a complementary nose, taste profile, and finish. For me, this whiskey was at its best being left alone at 100 proof just as the Master Distiller intended it. The pour was just so more complex and flavorful without adding any distilled water to it. What a solid introduction to the folks at Ghost Coast Distillery! If you find yourself in Georgia, specifically in Savannah, give these folks a visit and try some of their offerings. I know this specific Bottled-In-Bond was a special release, but if it is in line with their standard daily offerings, Ghost Coast may have something special brewing, rather distilling, here!

Rating: 3.55 Rickhouses

Mike: There are tons of good things about this Ghost Coast 5th Anniversary Bottled-In-Bond Straight Bourbon. This whiskey really opens up nicely as it breathes. It is somewhat simplistic overall, but traditional in flavor and very well done. My only regret is that I didn’t buy more than 1 bottle. This will satisfy the bourbon connoisseur and is more than approachable for beginners. If you’re in the Savannah, GA area stop in and say “hi” to the folks at Ghost Coast Distillery. You won’t be disappointed!

Rating: 3.63 Rickhouses

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Other States, Ramblings

Review: Old St. Pete Sunshine Whiskey

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DSR – FL – 003: Old St. Pete Sunshine Whiskey

Company/Distillery: St. Petersburg Distillery

Location: St. Petersburg, Florida

Mash Bill: Corn and Rye

Age Statement: A blend of 25% 4 year old whiskey finished with smoked wood chips and 75% 7 year barrel aged whiskey.

Proof/ABV: 88 Proof/44% ABV

Color & Viscosity: Viewing this whiskey from the bottle, it presents tawny in color. From the tasting vessel, this Old St. Pete Whiskey appears russet in color. The whiskey is very oily in appearance, leaving a thick and viscous trail of fleeting legs and a dense lip.

Purchase Price: $28.99 for a 750 ml bottle in Florida

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“Old St. Pete Sunshine Premium Whiskey”

“Barrel Finished with Smoked Oak Chips”

“Small Batch Pot-Distilled Whiskey”

“Batch No. 1 | Bottle No. 16074”

“Welcome To The Sunshine City”

Back Label

“St. Petersburg Distillery”

“Made In The Sunshine City”

“Old St. Pete”

“Old St. Pete spirits distilled in the independent, artisan tradition embraced throughout the city’s history. Our copper pot-distilled sunshine whiskey is a beautiful union of corn and rye, with notes of vanilla, smoke and spice. Aged in oak barrels and finished with smoked oak chips, resulting in a perfect balanced flavorful whiskey.”

“Produced and Bottled By St. Petersburg Distillery in St. Petersburg Florida”

“25% 4 Year Old Whiskey Finished With Smoked Oak Chips 75% 7 Years Barrel Aged Whiskey”

Distillery Background

St. Petersburg Distillery

St. Petersburg Distillery, founded in 2014, is located just outside of Tampa Bay on the Florida gulf coast. St. Petersburg Distillery is a family-owned operation led by Dominic Lafrate, Sr. and his two sons, Dominic Jr. and Stephen. The Lafrate family founded the distillery in the spirit of innovation, something that St. Petersburg is known to incubate. Mr. Lafrate, Sr. draws on his childhood experiences of wine making with grapes in Italy when crafting his fine spirits at the distillery. The family had owned and operated other businesses in the past including Lafrate Construction and Angelo’s Recycled Materials. The family decided it was time to diversify their portfolio and seeing that the craft brewing scene had become heavily saturated, Lafrate, Sr. felt that eventually craft distilling would see a similar boom and decided to jump in. The distillery uses pot stills built in the 1930’s for its distillation of spirits. 

The distillery has built itself around a team of people with diverse backgrounds and experiences, so that they can truly thrive as an up and coming distillery. Warren Gardener currently serves as the Master Distiller. Mr. Gardener grew up in Jamaica and learned the craft under a Master Distiller with four generations of experience. Mr. Gardener is joined by two Assistant Distillers, Clara Robbins and Adam Mitton. Prior to her time at St. Petersburg Distillery, Ms. Robbins, who studied chemical engineering, spent time as a bourbon, vodka, and gin distiller in Kentucky. Clara joined the team in St. Petersburg Distillery in 2019. Mr. Mitton, formerly of Chicago, Illinois, also came to St. Petersburg Distillery with a background in chemical engineering. Mr. Mitton leverages his experiences from his chemical engineering background along with stints in food manufacturing to bring another dimension of experience to the St. Pete’s distilling team. 

In addition to Old St. Pete Sunshine Whiskey, St. Petersburg Distillery also produces Old St. Pete Righteous Rum, Tropical Gin, Artisanal Vodka, and Sunset Gin. St. Petersburg Distillery also produces the brands Banyan Reserve Vodka and Oak & Palm Spiced and Coconut Rum. For more information on the distillery and their operations, please visit them online at http://stpetersburgdistillery.com.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: July 29, 2022 – Neat in Glencairn Glass, then with a drop of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: From the bottle, St. Pete Sunshine Premium Whiskey peaks out of the bottle with a very sweet and buttery nose. Hints of unaged oak chips accompany a smoked butterscotch aroma. It should be noted that this could also be detected as a smoked salted caramel as well. Whatever the aroma, this is very inviting from the bottle. In my glass, the nose is much more subtle and delicate in nature. Light honey, uncooked pie crust dough, and just a tinge of a floral component are present. A quick swirl and return to my nose offers a plethora of sweetness, perhaps butterscotch. A punch of rye spice and slight grass/hay quality also present themselves. Adding a drop of distilled water really ramps up the butterscotch component of this nose. A lot of the smokiness is muted, so the butterscotch combined with a touch of alcohol reminds me of butterscotch schnapps or something similar. 

Mike: Straight from the bottle, this whiskey is a butterscotch bomb upfront with a light smokiness in the background. Nosing this whiskey from the glass, it offers soft fruity notes that transition to delicate honeysuckle blossoms. A quick swirl releases gentle waves of cinnamon dusted pie dough and a whisper of pear aromas. Letting the whiskey rest and nosing back in, the butterscotch aroma becomes more prominent. 

Mouth

Christian: This whiskey offers a very soft and smooth mouthfeel. A sweet smokiness hits the palate quickly before giving way to very light tastes of leather and toasted brown sugar. As I continue to sip, further elements of butterscotch jump forward with a surprising kiss of grilled stone fruit. This whiskey tastes a little grain heavy, but surprisingly it is not the corn that is coming through most, but rather the rye’s spice influence. Overall, this whiskey continues to bring a delicate flavor profile to the experience. Adding the distilled water intensifies the sweet brown sugar and butterscotch flavored candies. The spiciness surprisingly steps up a notch, making the presence of rye really noticeable. 

Mike: My first sip of this Old St. Pete offers a semi-dry and smoky first impression. A brisk and creamy sweetness develops mid-palate as the whiskey becomes increasingly dry on the back end. A second pass reveals hints of stone fruit, indicative of apricots. As the sweetness of fruit fades, the smokiness advances and a faint bitterness materializes.

Finish

Christian: Old St. Pete Sunshine Premium Whiskey is a smooth light sipper with a short to medium finish. The lower proof point is evident in the finish, allowing this whiskey to be enjoyed by a large array of whiskey drinkers. The finish is dry with a bit of the bitterness from the oak tannin peeking through. That being said, sweetness still wins the day. Smoked salted caramel remains late on the palate and hangs around for a considerable amount of time. Distilled water seems to have very little influence on the overall finish of this pour. Sweetness is still strong, but I do notice the bitterness from the wood tannin has reduced considerably. 

Mike: Overall, this whiskey has a soft to medium finish. A sweetness reemerges and a soothing cinder matures agreeably from the mid-chest region down into the stomach. A brief rise of rye spice attempts to surface but doesn’t have the vigor to persevere.

Our Rating

2.88/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make it neat!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: Old St. Pete Sunshine Premium Whiskey offers a pleasant, sweet nose that offers a touch of smokiness to balance things out. The taste profile and mouth feel are a little anticlimactic but offer a little twist to the traditional flavors by enhancing things with smoke. This whiskey offers a finish that is approachable and smooth and does not overpower with heat from a higher proof point. Old St. Pete Sunshine Premium Whiskey is not overly complex but does add a wrinkle in a more traditional flavor profile by introducing the smokiness. Priced at under $30, this whiskey offers an approachable experience at a relatively low risk price point. If you are in Florida and in the mood for a sweet smokey treat, you might just want to give Old St. Pete Sunshine Premium Whiskey a try. 

Rating: 2.75 Rickhouses

Mike: This is a simple offering from Old St. Pete Distillery–a respectable blend of 25% 4-year whiskey and 75% 7-year whiskey. The whiskey isn’t complex and doesn’t pretend to be. It is an easy sipper and priced very reasonably for what it is. Credit is given for a sensible price point, but a slight deduction from me for lack of transparency in the overall product. 

Rating: 3.0 Rickhouses

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Ramblings, Virginia

Review: Ragged Branch Cowboy Cut

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DSR – VA – 020: Ragged Branch Cowboy Cut

Company/Distillery: Ragged Mountain Farm, LLC

Location: Charlottesville, Virginia

Mash Bill: 83% Rye and 17% Malted Barley

Age Statement: No Age Statement

Proof/ABV: 125.77 Proof/62.89% ABV

Color & Viscosity: This Ragged Branch Cowboy Cut Double Oaked Straight Rye presents with a deep and rich old oak hue. One of the darkest whiskies we have sampled to date. In the glass, this rye whiskey offers a shade of burnt umber. The viscous line is sharp with tiny pin head droplets appearing quickly, as the glass is tilted to the side. Oily residual streaks are left behind as the legs dawdle down the sides. 

Purchase Price: $69.99 From the Distillery Tasting Room

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“Ragged Branch”

“Independently Hand Crafted”

“Double Oaked Virginia Straight Rye Whiskey”

“Barrel Proof”

“Cowboy Cut”

“Distiller’s Select”

“Barrel 2016 | Bottle 147”

Back Label

“Ragged Branch is nestled in the foothills of the Ragged Mountains near Charlottesville, Virginia.”

“As a farm-to-bottle distillery, we grow, harvest, and mill grain to produce our spirit on site, and feed the residual mash to our cattle. Cattle are a huge part of our lives. For three generations, the Toomy family has raised cattle, and our founder, Alex Toomy, believes that there’s no better way to work cattle than on horseback. As a self-proclaimed cowboy, he wanted to hand select a spirit that represents his passion and the cowboy way. The cowboys and cattlemen of this country are some of the hardest working individuals in the world. They put beef on the plates of people thousands of miles away and rarely get credit for the hard work they put in. At Ragged Branch, we decided to honor the labor and dedication that these fine men and women put in day after day by selecting a barrel of Double Oaked Straight Rye Whiskey. This whiskey wouldn’t be fit for a calloused cowboy if it wasn’t left intact and undiluted at Barrel Proof.”

“Tip your hat and enjoy Ragged Branch Cowboy Cut, brought to you by the cattlemen of Central Virginia.”

“Distilled and Bottled by: Ragged Mountain Farm, LLC, Charlottesville, Virginia”

Distillery Background

Ragged Mountain Farm, LLC

Ragged Mountain Farm, LLC, located in Albemarle County, Virginia, was an idea cultivated by founder Alex Toomy and several of his friends as they sat at his farm and discussed their future plans after the 2008-2009 housing crisis. Mr. Toomy and his friends were home-builders and developers, experiencing firsthand, the fall out of the housing market. It was during one of these gatherings that someone jokingly mentioned the idea of becoming moonshiners and making whiskey. This idea took root in Toomy’s soul and he decided, along with partners Chris Sarpy and Russell Nance, to take the leap and reach out to the Maker’s Mark Master Distiller, Dave Pickerell.

Mr. Pickerell proved to be absolutely instrumental in assisting the men at Ragged Branch as they got their feet wet in the world of whiskey. He provided Mr. Toomy with the confidence he needed to start a whiskey distillery and even assisted him in laying out a plan to bring this idea to fruition. After Pickerell’s four day visit on the farm, Toomy and his partners decided that making Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey, with the help of Pickerell, was an achievable goal.

After several years of laboring to build the distillery, growing the grains (assisted by partner Kevin Engel), and awaiting their Vendome Copper and Brass Works still, Ragged Branch was ready to begin making whiskey in July 2014.

On July 7, 2014, Ragged Branch produced their first mash under the supervision of Mr. Pickerell. Four days later, the fermented mash was run through their new still and Ragged Branch made its first run of whiskey. They now run the still, just as Dave Pickerell taught them, 10 hours a day, 7 days a week, producing an average of 25 barrels per a month. Even today, Ragged Branch considers the late Mr. Pickerell to be their Master Distiller, as they have continued to run the operation just as he taught them.

Standard offerings available by Ragged Branch include: Signature Bourbon; Wheated Bourbon; Double Oaked Signature Bourbon Bottled-in-Bond; Double Oaked Wheated Bourbon; Straight Rye Whiskey; Louisiana Reserve Signature; Louisiana Reserve Wheated; Signature Bourbon Finished in Wine Barrels.

For a brief look at the distillery and what they have going on check out this Ragged Branch Showcase Video!

Ragged Branch Signature Bourbon

Ragged Branch carefully crafts its Double Oaked Straight Rye Whiskey using a recipe of 83% rye and 17% malted barley. After distillation, this bourbon is aged in 53-gallon Kelvin Cooperage barrels for a minimum of 4 years before being transferred to a second new oak barrel for at least an additional year. This special release offering is then bottled at a robust Barrel Proof of 125.77 Proof.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: June 26, 2022 – Neat in Glencairn Glass; Then with a few drops of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: Good gracious! In the bottle, robust aromas of cured tobacco burst forth from the neck quickly after the pop of the cork. Visions of walking into a well maintained cigar shop humidor race to my mind. This is accompanied by an essence of baking spices such as allspice and mulling spice. I am excited to dive into this pour! In my Glencairn glass, Cowboy Cut holds an elegant array of sweet molasses which is nicely balanced by clove and cinnamon baking spices. A gentle swirl releases subtle hints of oak, dark honey, and a surprising note of cranberries and black cherry. To me, what is noticeably missing that I expected to be present due to the proof is an overpowering punch of ethanol – a welcome omission. Adding distilled water into the mix really brings out a dark maple syrup quality to this whiskey. There is still a touch of baking spice present, but it becomes more muted and allows a bit more toasted brown sugar and berries to seep through. 

Mike: From the bottle, this whiskey hits heavy with clove, allspice, and cinnamon. This pour reminds me of a Christmas ham, dotted with fresh whole cloves and spiced sugar glaze. Notes of tobacco, Big Red chewing gum, and dark cherries become noticeable with a swirl of the bottle.

With the glass sitting on the table a few inches away, swarms of cranberry compote, raisins and figs invade the senses. Drawing the tasting vessel towards your nose, toasted baking spices, heavy cinnamon, and dark molasses explode on the palate. Rye spice is intermingled with sweet baking spices as fresh tobacco and oak char push through late. A swirl releases a sweetness of cola syrup then succumbs to heavy notes of sweet cinnamon.

Mouth

Christian: Cowboy Cut offers a thick oily mouthfeel that leaves a generous coating on the roof of the mouth and tongue. Boy does this Double Oaked Barrel Proof Straight Rye Whiskey offer a rich warm flavor profile. Dark brown sugar, syrup, and warm vanilla bean join harmoniously with a kick of clove and cinnamon baking spices. A second sip of this expression adds notes of homemade biscuits topped with raw honey and a pat of butter. Distilled water allows the mouth feel to lighten a tad but really ramps up the oak barrel flavors. The whiskey loses a bit of the sweetness it had at Barrel Proof. Vanilla, clove, and toasted sugar remain present in the flavors.

Mike: Ragged Branch Cowboy Cut offers a dry mouth feel initially. A sweetness emerges mid-palate as dry cinnamon spice coats the palate and a bite of rye zest tickles the upper throat. Intense flavors of clove are dominant, but a hint of sliced apples prevails through the heavy clove cloak.

A second pass of this whiskey introduces heavy oak char, somewhat tannic and bitter, then transitions to old leather and mulling spices. 

Finish

Christian: Ragged Branch Cowboy Cut has a nice medium to long finish that is warming but not nearly as hot or spicy as one would perhaps have expected in a barrel proof straight rye whiskey. A nice sweetness remains long after sipping the whiskey, bringing to mind flavors of black cherry, molasses, apples, and cinnamon. Notes of oak barrel char and fresh cigar/pipe tobacco hit late and hang around on the palate for a long time after imbibing in this whiskey. The addition of water really brings on a punch of spice here. This actually drinks hotter with the water added than undiluted as Mr. Toomy intended this to be enjoyed. The oak barrel brings on just a smidgen of bitterness to the pour while apple and mixed berries remain present. 

Mike: This double oaked rye bolsters a long and uniform finish. While this whiskey provides some heat at 125 proof, it is not abrasive at all. A persistent cinder is noticed from the back of the throat deep into the mid-chest and down into the belly. A crisp hint of apple, Big Red chewing gum, and clove linger on the palate.

Our Rating

3.88/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make it a Double!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: There are really a lot of nice notes going on in this expression from Ragged Branch. The nose is phenomenal, painting an aromatic picture of what one should expect to experience when sipping on the whiskey. This is followed by a well-balanced taste profile that offers a little bit of sweet heat or spice – a combination typically found in straight rye whiskey. But what sets this apart for me is the extra richness and bold flavors that the double barreling brings to the table with Cowboy Cut. Finally, the finish here is long and pronounced as is expected with a barrel proof offering. Cowboy Cut is in no way overly spicy or hot for my palate. 

This pour reminds me a lot of being around a fire in the winter at the holidays. Traditional Christmas smells and flavors like vanilla, clove, cinnamon, cranberries, and cherries abound. The finishing pop of cigar or pipe tobacco just really makes this a homey feeling pour of whiskey. A fine salute to Alex, his family tradition, and the population of American Cattle Farmers who feed us daily! I love many of the special release offerings from Ragged Branch, but I think this one might just be my most favorite to date.

Rating: 4.25 Rickhouses

Mike: This is a bold, flavorful, spicy offering from Ragged Branch. It’s very big on clove and baking spices–perfect for sipping neat during the holiday season. I prefer this pour on a rock or with a light splash of distilled water. The water cuts down the mountain of clove spice in this offering but doesn’t take away anything from the finish and reveals that Ragged Branch double oaked character that I really love. This Cowboy Cut won’t be for everyone, and that’s OK. If you like bold and spicy flavors, this is right up your alley.  While not my preferred expression from Ragged Branch, this is another unique, flavorful and impressive whiskey from one of my favorite distilleries. 

Rating: 3.50 Rickhouses

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Review: Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey

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DSR-NC-024: Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey

Company/Distillery: The Old Nick Williams Company, Inc.

Location: Lewisville, NC

Mash Bill: Undisclosed – At Least 51% Rye

Age Statement: Minimum 2 Years

Proof/ABV: 92 Proof/46% ABV

Color & Viscosity: From the bottle, Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey presents auburn in color. In the tasting vessel, the whiskey takes on a more russet color. Tilting the glass to the side, a medium viscous line presents rather quickly. The viscous lip becomes thicker, then large droplets form and sluggishly drift down the glass.

Purchase Price: $46.15 from the NC ABC Store; 750 ml Bottle

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“Zeb’s”

“American Straight Rye Whiskey”

“Distilled and Aged in the ONW Family Tradition”

Side Label

“Just like a pour of Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey, whitewater brings folks together from all walks of life. The lifelong friendships and the camaraderie built over the years have been a very special part of my life.”

“For that reason, I dedicate Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey to my fellow boaters and whitewater family across the globe. To Big, Clean lines my friends!”

“Distilled in Lawrenceburg, IN; Bottled by the Old Nick Williams CO., Lewisville, NC”

Distillery Background

Old Nick Williams Company Farm & Distillery traces its distilling heritage back 250 years, before the Revolutionary War, in 1768. It was during this period, that The Williams Distillery was established by Joseph Williams in what was then known as Rowan County, North Carolina. The distillery has not changed locations, but it’s now located in the Piedmont Triad, Forsyth County, in the town of Lewisville.

The distillery was operated by multiple generations in the family up until Prohibition forced them to close their doors. Below are the highlights of their history before Prohibition:

  • Joseph Williams: Established and ran The Williams Distillery from 1768 until approximately 1827.
  • Nicholas Lanier Williams and his son Joseph Williams: Operated the Joseph Williams Distillery from 1827 until about 1887 and introduced the “Old Nick” whiskey brand.
  • Nicholas Glen Williams: Took over the distillery from 1887 until 1913. During his time, he renamed the distillery “Old Nick Distillery” and sourced whiskey from other local distilleries. He took his whiskey to the 1893 World’s Fair and the 1900 Paris Exposition. Upon his death, his widow, Mary, managed the remaining supply of whiskey until the enactment of Prohibition shut them down in 1920.
  • Van and John Williams with their sons, Zeb and Matt: Decided to relaunch the Old Nick Williams Distillery in 2014. In October 2015, they celebrated their first bottling since Prohibition.

Other Old Nick Williams Company Farm & Distillery Product Offerings:

  1. ONW Carolina Whiskey
  2. ONW Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  3. Coattail Cinnamon Whiskey
  4. Jamerican White Rum
  5. Jamerican Overproof Rum
  6. Jamerican Aged Rum
  7. ONW Vodka
  8. Hempahol – Vodka Infused through Hemp Seeds
  9. Marci’s Tears – Vodka Infused with Ghost Peppers

Old Nick Williams released their ONW Bourbon Whiskey, as reviewed below, in June of 2020. For more information visit their website: Old Nick Williams Whiskey

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: July 5, 2021 – Neat in Glencairn Glass; Then with a couple drops of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: From the bottle, Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey offers up a subtle light nose that gently emits a sweetness of toasted brown sugar and delicate oak barrel char. In my Glencairn glass, I am welcomed by a warm sweetness of fresh milled corn and vanilla custard – similar to a homemade corn pudding in the oven. Freshly pressed pie crust is also present yet very unassuming. A quick swirl of the glass allows for a small amount of freshly made unsweetened applesauce to join the mix. Adding distilled water into the mix jacks the sweetness level up a notch. Toasted pie crumble, pie crust, and warm brown sugar are all present.

Mike: Nosing this rye whiskey from the bottle, soft notes of light brown sugar and slightly baked pastry crusts are detected. There is a pinch of fruity sweetness present, but the variety is indistinguishable. 

From the Glencairn glass, a quick inhale reveals a Juicy Fruit gum sweetness that recedes to a berry wine-must aroma. Subtle hints of freshly sliced golden delicious apples materialize with a swirl of the whiskey. 

Mouth

Christian: Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey has a fantastic creamy mouth feel that is both velvety and full bodied. Freshly sliced granny smith apples, baking spices, oiled saddle leather, and oak barrel char grow on the palate. A second pass allows a tinge of citrus zest and a punch of rye spice to become apparent. I’m picking up a lot of traditional rye whiskey qualities on the palate here. Man, the distilled water really ramps up the apple pie characteristics of this rye whiskey. Crisp apples, freshly ground cinnamon, and spicy clove provide a nice warmth and robust flavor profile to the palate.

Mike: My First sip of Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey is bright and crisp on the palate. A soft creaminess moves across mid-palate as suggestions of lightly sweetened applesauce develop. This rye coats the tongue with a velvety softness then transitions to the warmth of black pepper and rye spice which matures perfectly on the back end. 

Finish

Christian: The finish on this straight rye whiskey is much more pronounced and punchy than expected. Medium in length with a nice hug that builds in the chest. Toasted brown sugar, charred oak barrel, and a nice medley of cinnamon and clove baking spices really round out this pour nicely. Long after I have enjoyed this spirit, hints of roasted corn are joined with just a wisp of stone fruit which lingers a while on the palate. The water really tones down the finish which I was finding enjoyable as it was. Oiled leather, barrel char, and black pepper really hold up to the addition of the water.

Mike: For a 90 proof whiskey, Zeb’s Rye Whiskey punches higher than its stated proof. Smooth as it passes the back of the throat, the zestiness of rye arrives much later in the lower throat and mid-chest region.

Our Rating

3.375/5.0 Rickhouse – “Make it neat!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: Old Nick Williams Distillery has blended a nice, well-rounded straight rye whiskey by adding Zeb’s American Straight Rye Whiskey to their portfolio. This offering provides traditional rye flavors and baking spices while remaining incredibly approachable and tasty. I absolutely love the creamy texture experienced when sipping this. At the risk of alienating a huge fan base, this pour reminds me of the creaminess of Wild Turkey’s Longbranch, a pour I personally enjoy, but with more nuanced depths of flavor. If you are looking for a nice sippin’ rye that is approachable with nice flavors, then give this offering from Old Nick Williams Distillery a try!

Rating: 3.25 Rickhouses

Mike: Kudos to Old Nick Williams Distillery on this rye whiskey. It has very well-balanced flavors, although not excessively complex overall. This is an excellent sipper in the summer and offers a welcoming crispness in its profile. Priced at about $47 for 750 ml, this rye is approachable in price and flavor. If you’re local to North Carolina, definitely consider picking this one up from your local ABC store. 

Rating: 3.5 Rickhouses

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Review: John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey Barrel Proof

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DSR – NC – 021: John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey Barrel Proof

Company/Distillery: Bogue Sound Distillery

Location: Bogue, North Carolina

Mash Bill: Roughly 55-66% rye and 10% malt

Age Statement: No Age Statement; Confirmed 2 Years Old

Proof/ABV: 113 Proof/56.5% ABV

Color: This A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye from Bogue Sound Distillery presents dark mahogany in the bottle. From the tasting vessel, this whiskey is tawny in color. Tilting the glass to the side, streaky oily legs appear quickly and glide down the sides effortlessly. A medium viscous line is left that forms into droplets that slowly begin to trickle. 

Purchase Price: $59.95 for 750 ml bottle at the NC ABC Store in Boone, NC

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey”

“Barrel Proof”

“Bogue Sound Distillery – Crafting Quality Spirits”

Back Label

“This Bourbon Whiskey is distilled from locally sourced grains. Named for John A.P. Conoley and crafted in the United States, this fine whiskey’s journey began when John’s father-in-law transported a still from Scotland to America to produce whiskey and brandy to provide for his family. The still was housed in John and Sara Conoley’s barn until it was stolen, later confiscated by a local sheriff, and ultimately donated to a museum in Raleigh. John A.P. Conoley American Bourbon Whiskey is rich in history and smooth in taste.”

“Cheers! Thanks for choosing our spirits. Richard Chapman”

“Produced and Bottled by: Bogue Sound Distillery, Bogue, NC 28570 “

“Batch No. 1”

Distillery Background

Bogue Sound Distillery

Bogue Sound Distillery, located just across the Bogue Sound and Emerald Isle, was formally opened in May 2018 by Richard and Margaret Chapman. Mr. Chapman, a member of the North Carolina State University Wolfpack football team from 1965-1968, enjoyed a successful career in textiles, construction, and real estate prior to launching the distillery.

One thing that becomes instantly clear upon researching Bogue Sound Distillery is that they have a great passion and zeal for sharing and celebrating their family history of distilling. On site at the distillery, Mr. Chapman has a museum built to showcase stills from the 1700 and 1800’s, a 1923 Ford Model-T pickup used to run moonshine, and a grist mill from 1900.

Bogue Sound Distillery prides itself on being a self-sustaining process. “The whole process, from grinding the grain to bottling and labeling takes place right here at Bogue Sound Distillery. Our quality spirits are free of sugar and made from only the best grains available. We practice safe-distilling using methods like low-pressure steam cooking. And we work to be environmentally friendly through process improvements like utilizing rainwater to cool all of our equipment.”

In addition to John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey, Bogue Sound also distills its John A.P. Conoley Bourbon Whiskey, Vitzellen Vodka, Bombshell Gin, John A.P. Conoley Salted Caramel Spirit, and John A.P. Conoley Carolina Peanut Butter Whiskey. Additional information on Bogue Sound Distillery and their offerings can be found at boguesounddistillery.com.

A Special thank you to Mr. Chapman for taking the time out of his day on a busy Saturday to share about his distillery and specifically, the John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey – Barrel Proof.

John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey – Barrel Proof

Rickhouse Ramblings contacted distillery owner, Richard Chapman, to find out more about this special release offering by Bogue Sound Distillery. John A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey is made using a mash bill of 55% to 66% rye. Water is run through a reverse osmosis system prior to being used in the distillation process. Chapman distills his spirits “slow and easy” ensuring the process is not rushed and producing the highest quality distillate possible. The rye whiskey is aged for 2 years in 53-gallon new American oak barrels, using char #3, made by West Virginia Great Barrel Company. At Bogue Sound Distillery, the barrels rest standing upright in the barrel house on location in Bogue, North Carolina.

For Additional information about John A.P. Conoley, Vitzellen, and the stolen still from Scotland visit the Bogue Sound Distillery history archives.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: May 1, 2022 – Neat in Glencairn Glass; Then with a few drops of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: In the bottle, Bogue Sound A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey Barrel Proof bursts forth from the neck with copious amounts of grandpa’s moist coarse-cut pipe tobacco. This has a very rich and robust sweetness to it – just like the color I see in the bottle. In my Glencairn glass, the nose on this pour is different from many other rye offerings I have tried. Bogue Sound’s Limited Reserve Rye is vibrant and sweet. There is a woodsy characteristic that reminds me of a cedar plank and warm pine sap. A gentle swirl and continued nose offers gentle aromas of light honey, rye grain, mulling spices, and cranberries. Man, this really reminds me of Christmas. It should be noted that at 113 proof, the level of ethanol is surprisingly low and unassuming in the glass, something that is honestly unexpected. Adding distilled water really allows a strong sweetness of smoked butterscotch, brown sugar, and an additional butteriness to take front and center on the nose.

Mike: As I nose this rye from the bottle, warm notes of pipe tobacco and heavy oak emanate from its long neck. It almost acts as a pipeline of exquisiteness! From the glass, a bouquet of maple syrup and brown sugar rises from inside with a subtle hint of crisp coniferous needles.  A gentle swirl produces a quick charge of ethanol, which is surprisingly forgiving despite the high proof, then ends with fleeting notes of black pepper spice and delicate honey.

Mouth

Christian: This rye whiskey offers a nice textured feel that is a little bit thicker, almost syrupy, on the tongue. Instantly, my tongue is rushed with beautifully bold and sweet flavors. Big pronounced oak flavors are accompanied by grandpa’s moist pipe tobacco, much like what I experienced in the nose. Immediately, I think of flavors that are reminiscent of a double oaked product. A nice rye spiciness develops quickly before giving way to sweet molasses, vanilla, clove, and real leather. This whiskey offers fantastic flavors that are both complex and deep. The added water really changes the taste profile on this one. The oakiness turns a bit bitter while the baking spices pick up steam. Not nearly as sweet but still bold and flavorful.

Mike: My first sip of this Bogue Sound rye explodes with flavors of fresh chewing tobacco. A second pass collects silky undertones of sweet maple syrup and traditional baking spices. Becoming semi-dry mid-palate, tones of vintage leather swell towards the back of the palate. A snappy bite of rye pecks the back of the throat then closes with a trace of dried maple syrup.   

Finish

Christian: Bogue Sound A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey offers a medium to long finish that is expected in a pour proofed at 113; but make no mistake, this is not abrasive or overwhelming at all. A nice deep warmth rises from deep in my chest and hangs around. This pour is loaded with rich tobacco and canned pears in thick syrup. A nice spearmint quality wells up on the palate later, long after the spirit has been enjoyed. You even get a bit of the cool mouth sensation. Surprisingly, the distilled water ramps up the baking spices here with cinnamon and clove really standing tall. Neither the warmth or finish are disturbed by the water being added. Pear really comes in late and is quite prevalent.

Mike: I’m blown away by the finish from this Limited Reserve Rye. It’s nearly, if not absolutely, perfect. For a 113-proof whiskey, it provides the drinker with an impeccably balanced and soothing warmth from the middle of your throat down into your chest. You are left with a soft mint freshness and a gentle bitterness on the palate.

Our Rating

4.125/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make it a Double!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: Ok, I am going to throw this out there. This is easily one of my top two rye samplings we have reviewed for this website. The robust, sweet, bold flavors are absolutely incredible! There are baking spices present, but they are so gentle and unassuming. It still allows just enough of a hint of Christmas to dance through my mind. It is insane how well this pour drinks at such a stiff proof of 113. Yes, I am gushing over this a little bit but only because I absolutely dig it! The pour is well-balanced, complementary in its flavors, approachable, and overall just a damn good North Carolina craft whiskey. The only thing I am disappointed in is that we only have 1 bottle and that it isn’t a full time offering! Cheers to you, Mr. Chapman and your topnotch team–your A.P. Conoley Limited Reserve Rye Whiskey gets a standing ovation from me!! Bottoms up, y’all!

Rating: 4.00 Rickhouses

Mike: WOW! I wholeheartedly love this rye from Bogue Sound. This is one of the best, if not THE BEST, rye I’ve ever tasted. Packed with flavor and tremendously well-balanced, this is another sleeper craft distillery making an exceptional product that can compete with the “Big Boys” in Kentucky. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to review this whiskey and share its deliciousness with our readers, and we paid for this bottle (as we do all of our bottles, haha)!  Find it if you can, in North Carolina, and then slowly relish it. This is a gem of a product coming out of eastern North Carolina. Well done, Bogue Sound Distillery! Keep up the amazing work!

Rating: 4.25 Rickhouses

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Review: Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor

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DSR – NC – 019: Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor

Company/Distillery: Soulshine LLC

Location: Newland, North Carolina

Mash Bill: 50% Sugar, 25% Corn, 20% Wheat, and 5% Oats

Age Statement: No Age Statement

Proof/ABV: 100 Proof/50% ABV

Color & Viscosity: From the bottle, Steve’s Soulshine Brown is a beautiful dark amber color. In the glass, this liquor is tawny in appearance. A thin viscous line presents when tilting the tasting vessel to the side. Small beads form into thick droplets. Oily streaks remain as the spirit charges down the sides of the glass.

Purchase Price: $28.20 from the North Carolina ABC

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“Steve’s Soulshine Craft Distillery”

“Brown”

“Spirits Distilled from Cane and Grain, Finished on Oak and Cherry Wood”

Back Label

“Steve’s Soulshine Craft Distillery”

“Highest Distillery East of the Rockies”

“Spirits distilled from our special grain blend and cane, finished on oak and cherry wood”

“Nestled in Pisgah National Forest, Steve’s Soulshine takes pure mountain water and the finest local ingredients for our mash. Following our family traditions, we create the smoothest liquor in these mountains…It’s that good.”

“The liquor made on Roaring Creek has always been the finest, but it has never been available in bottles. We bring the best of the past in a new way. Thanks for being part of our new tradition.”

“Distiller: SS | Bottler: SS”

“Distilled & Bottled by Soulshine LLC Newland, NC”

Distillery Background

Soulshine LLC

In February 2017, business partners Steve Salmieri and Charles Holwerk decided to form a legal distillery in Pisgah National Forest in Newland, North Carolina. Mr. Salmieri was first introduced to vinification, or production of wine, in high school while being employed by a local winery. Although his career path would eventually lead him into a different direction, Mr. Salmieri would continue to appreciate the process and practice in the production of wine. While working locally at a ski resort, Mr. Salmieri would be introduced to the science of distillation and would eventually build his first still, from scratch, under the guidance of two local moonshiners. On July 4th, 2017, Mr. Salmieri and his business partner would begin construction of their distillery–a small metal building constructed over the course of a year. A traditional pot still and thumper design was hand-built on site and is still used today in the production of Soulshine LLC’s Brown, Apple, and Pumpkin Liquor offerings. Soulshine LLC is proud of its heritage and the tradition of the moonshiners who came before them producing their goods in a way that isn’t quite legalized. Steve’s Soulshine Liquors is produced as close to products made in an era past as one can legally make them today while using local ingredients from Bladen, Yancey, Avery, and other local counties. The distillery currently produces and sells approximately 400 to 500 cases per year and is distributed in 75 stores across North Carolina.

Still as built by Steve at Soulshine LLC. Photo Courtesy of Steve Salmieri and Soulshine LLC.

In addition to past experiences as well as some trial and error, Steve and his wife Joyce, a career nurse, have a rich family history in the production of moonshine. We had the opportunity to speak with both Steve and Joyce while preparing this article. As a person who loves history, I could have spent all afternoon talking to Joyce about her family’s moonshine background. Her stories, handed down from her grandpas, include legends of stints in federal prison, family feuds, severed ears, family owned dry goods stores used to procure sugar, and much more. The story that stood out the most was that of the Cable Family.

Joyce’s family can be traced back to the Avery County area of North Carolina as far back as the late 1700’s. This is the same area in which the Salmieri family currently distills. In the mid 1890’s, moonshine was being made in those mountains by the Cable family. The Cable brothers had been identified in news reports as “outlaws” and “known manufacturers of moonshine whiskey.” They were even under surveillance by local authorities. Upon finding out about the general area of the still site, Deputy Sheriff Green and an individual named Greenlee, were asked to stand watch for the brothers. At some point the Cable brothers would cross paths with their watchers and try to escape to their father’s home while under pursuit. A gun fight would ensue, resulting in both officers being shot and killed. One Cable brother would receive a shot to the stomach while his wife was shot in the shoulder and hand. Newspaper reports indicate that he would eventually succumb to his injuries, but family legend reports that this was not the case. In fact, it is believed that all four Cables would escape under the cover of darkness to Kentucky, where they would stay for two generations!

Steve’s Soulshine Craft Distillery Brown Liquor

Steve’s Soulshine Craft Distillery Brown Liquor is a multi-grain moonshine distilled from a blend of cane sugar, corn, wheat, and oats before being rapidly aged for six months in a vat with charred oak and cherry wood chips. This is not a traditional bourbon or whiskey – but a rapid aged moonshine. After the rapid aging process, the moonshine is tempered down to 100 proof using fresh clean mountain water retrieved from the springs of the Stillhouse Branch on Big Yellow Mountain. The finished Steve’s Soulshine Craft Distillery Brown Liquor is bottled in American-made Philadelphia Flasks. Distribution is currently available across North Carolina from the ABC store.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: April 10, 2022 – Neat in a Glencairn glass; Then with a few drops of distilled water.

Nose

Christian: In the bottle, after the fresh crack, you are welcomed by a distinctive bouquet of aromas. A rich butteriness is present and joined by sweet maraschino cherries and a hint of butterscotch candies. In my Glencairn glass, Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor is unbelievably sweet smelling. Freshly baked yeast rolls with honey butter drizzle draw you in quickly. A soft swirl in the glass really allows the grain essence and moonshine qualities to emit from the glass. A second swirl unleashes subtle hints of caramel and tart green apple – reminiscent of a Tootsie Caramel Apple pop. To sum this up in three words – buttery, sweet, candies. Oh man, the added distilled water makes this so sweet on the nose. Butter, brown sugar, and confectionery sugar all come to mind.

Mike: From the bottle, this unique spirit entices you with buttery aromas that transition to mixed berries with a touch of oak essence. From the glass, I nose yeasty new-make fragrances intermingled with hints of fresh brown sugar. Very soft notes of butterscotch and brown sugar glaze emerge with a second pass. As the spirit settles in the glass, a late surge of additional brown sugar radiates as it’s overcome with hints of muted ethanol.

Mouth

Christian: On my tongue, Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor has a thick yet silky mouthfeel that I find common in other moonshine products. On the tip of the tongue, this spirit releases a very sweet drupes flavor before transitioning to robust woody oak flavors. Dark cherries in heavy syrup jump onto my palate. Luden’s Cherry cough drops, from my elementary school days, permeate my memory. Distilled water allows this spirit to soften. Wood still really dominates, making the cherry tones rather muted.

Mike: The first sip of Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor offers a velvety mouthfeel on the tongue and is semi-dry on the palate. An offering of mixed berries blended with fresh tanned leather hits mid-palate. A flavorful balance of crafted moonshine opens then shifts to gentle sweetened cherries.

Finish

Christian: Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor offers a nice medium finish that has a pleasing and comfortable zip. Just a touch of bitterness wells up in the back of this pour, but that quickly gives way to subtle wisps of natural leather, light cherry cough syrup (not in a bad way), and star anise. An enjoyable and gentle warmth shows itself very late – it is a really nice touch that ends this pour with just a little pop! Water doesn’t change much in the finish. Surprisingly, the zip in the finish and nice warm hug stick around.

Mike: This spirit offers a medium soft finish. At 100 proof, this is a relaxed sipper and textbook Kentucky hug. Subtle notes of leather, mixed berries and light charred oak are a pleasant cohesiveness of flavor with a white pepper spice in the back of your throat. 

Our Rating

3.062/5.0 Rickhouses – “Make It Neat!”

Final Thoughts

Christian: Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor is a unique, approachable, drinkable rapid aged moonshine. Honestly I cannot believe it is proofed at 100. It is rare we find a spirit that holds up to the addition of water without losing considerable flavor – that is not the case here; Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor is tasty neat, holds up to a cube, and makes a uniquely pleasant old fashioned. Don’t approach this spirit if all you are looking for is a standard bourbon offering, however, don’t sleep on it because it is a rapid aged moonshine. Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor offers you a well rounded, balanced, authentic shine experience with more robust sweet flavors that can be enjoyed multiple different ways. I really hope we get to try some of their more seasonal offerings in the very near future!

Rating: 3.125 Rickhouses

Mike: Not overly complex in flavor but unique nonetheless, this Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor is a gratifying pour. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this spirit with its minimalist labeling and “generic” bottle, but I am very pleasantly surprised by its contents. While not a bourbon or whiskey by definition, this spirit does offer some traditional bourbon flavors while delicately letting its moonshine roots “shine” through! Steve’s Soulshine Brown Liquor is distinct in its overall profile and is quite drinkable.

Rating: 3.00 Rickhouses

Special thanks to Steve Salmieri and his wife, Joyce for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with us! We really appreciate your willingness to share your story and traditions with Rickhouse Ramblings! I hope one day we can share a pour while digging deeper into some of the history you have in moonshine! Thanks So Much!!!

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Review: McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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DSR – KY – 015: McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Company/Distillery: I.J.W. Whiskey Company, LLC

Location: Danville, Kentucky

Mash Bill: Undisclosed

Age Statement: Aged a minimum of 3 Years

Proof/ABV: 90 Proof/45% ABV

Color & Viscosity: From the bottle, McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey presents russet in color. From the tasting vessel, this whiskey is light gold in color. Tilting the glass to the side, the bourbon leaves a medium viscous line. Small beads appear, then fuse to form a thicker lip. The lip grudgingly slides down the sides of the glass to form melting candle wax-like droplets.

Purchase Price: $17.99 at Total Wine & More in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Bottle Label Information:

Front Label

“MR”

“McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey”

“Hand Crafted Bourbon Made In Kentucky”

Back Label

“In 1791, President George Washington signed the ‘Whiskey Tax’ into law and appointed General John Neville as the collector of the revenues.”

“In the summer of 1794, Major James McFarlane and his band of whiskey rebels descended on Bower Hill, General Neville’s majestic West Pennsylvanian Estate, in protest of the tax. On the second day of the standoff, a white flag was waved from Neville’s mansion, and McFarlane, assuming the Government had surrendered, stepped out in the open and was shot dead. McFarlane’s death further radicalized the resistance, inciting additional violent clashes with the Government, which ultimately quelled the Whiskey Rebellion in the fall of 1794. McFarlane’s brave stand, however, is a lasting tribute to American passion and our intimate and storied history with our native spirit.”

“Aged A Minimum of 3 Years”

“Distilled in Kentucky”

“Bottled by IJW Whiskey Company, Danville, KY 40422”

Distillery Background

I.J.W. Whiskey Company, LLC

I.J.W. Whiskey Company, LLC was founded April 28, 2017 by its agent 3300, LLC of Louisville, Kentucky, and IJW Class A, LLC. It is widely believed that I.J.W. Whiskey Company, LLC is owned by Canada-based private equity firm, Waterton Global Resource Management, in collaboration with a possible $130M investor from the University of Michigan (Source: Mystery Surrounds University of Michigan Possible Whiskey Investment by Matthew Dolan & David Jesse of the Detroit Free Press).

In reality, very little is known about the secretive whiskey producer located in Danville, Kentucky, just off the grounds of the well-known Wilderness Trail Distillery. A few of the individuals involved with the organization include President David “Dukie” Morduchowitz, Master Blender Steve Hughes, and Master Distiller Kevin Curtis. Details on the operation are scant and far from transparent. but what can be deduced from their website (ijwwhiskey.com/) is that I.J.W. Whiskey Company procures its bourbon and rye stocks from an assortment of distilleries (are the words italicized on the website leading to possible clues? Words like Bespoke, Heritage, and Peerless–who knows?). Not much else is disclosed or available to the public. In addition, it has recently been made known that Puncher’s Chance special offering The D12tance 12-year old Tennessee Whiskey was sourced by Wolf Spirit from I.J.W. Whiskey Company. Despite the smoke and mirrors, I.J.W. Whiskey Company promises this, “Our combination of industry expertise, unmatched inventory and infrastructure, create a peerless blend for the future of whiskey.”

Master Blender Steve Hughes

Steve Hughes joins I.J.W Whiskey company after spending 38+ years as a Master Blender at Brown-Forman. During his time at Brown-Forman, Hughes worked with brands Canadian Mist and Slane Irish Whiskey. Mr. Hughes held the title of Global Director, Whiskey Development and Innovation at Brown-Forman.

Master Distiller Kevin Curtis

Kevin Curtis brings with him an extensive background in the Kentucky bourbon scene. Most recently, Curtis served as Distillery Operations Manager at Angel’s Envy. In addition to Angel’s Envy, Mr. Curtis has held similar positions in production or operations management at Woodford Reserve and Michter’s Distillery. His career began at Brown-Forman and led him down a path of distillery restoration and development.

McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is “Distilled by Rebels. Tamed by Wheat” (mcfarlanesreservebourbon.com). This bourbon whiskey is made from a mash bill of at least 51% corn and aged for a minimum of 3 years in new American oak barrels. McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey can be found at Total Wine & More, where it is identified as one of Fred Minnick’s Whiskey Picks.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Date/Vessel: April 5, 2022 – Neat in a Glencairn glass; Then with a few drops of distilled water.

Special thanks to Mike’s brother, Third Wheel Phil, for bringing this bottle back from South Carolina for us to review! We are glad you could tag along as our Third Wheel for this tasting.

Nose

Christian: In the bottle, the first thing I notice from the McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a buttery aroma. At first I thought butterscotch, but with a second pass, I am picking up hints of floral and caramel. In my Glencairn glass, after allowing the whiskey to rest, I quickly pick up notes of honey, breakfast pastry, and corn. A gentle swirl and return of the glass to my nose brings forward caramel, buttered popcorn, and brown sugar. A punch of ethanol comes late and can be overwhelming, if not careful. Adding a splash of distilled water really allows the sweetness of butterscotch to slide forward, leaving behind just a touch of ethanol.

Mike: From the bottle, the nose is reminiscent of buttery caramels and candy corn. Lightly buttered popcorn emits from the crown of the Glencairn glass with undertones of ethanol.  Butterscotch flavors become prominent, followed by waves of black pepper spiciness and another punch of ethanol. A swirl releases softer notes of butterscotch candies and warmed vanilla syrup. 

Third Wheel Phil: In the bottle, McFarlane’s Reserve is very buttery on the nose – this reminds me of butter melting in a hot pan. In my Glencairn glass, again I detect notes of butter as slight hints of flowers join together delicately.

Mouth

Christian: This McFarlane’s Reserve Whiskey has a nice creamy mouthfeel. Surprisingly, this bourbon is rather spicy on the front end of the palate. Fresh cracked black pepper and cloves baking spice is bold and in your face. A second swallow allows delicate vanilla pudding and sweet honey butter drizzle to sneak onto the tongue. There is sweetness there, but it is tough to get past the almost abrasive spiciness present. Distilled water allows the vanilla and honey to ramp up. The spiciness is present, but it is much more tame.

Mike: McFarlane’s Reserve offers a semi-dry mouthfeel and pronounced leather tones on the front end. A quick rush of bitterness fades nicely into soft vanilla custard flavors. Hints of sweet tobacco are present yet faint as shades of dry leather swell on the palate. Gentle suggestions of butterscotch candies endure to the finish.

Third Wheel Phil: McFarlane’s Reserve was slightly monotone on my palate. I mainly notice flavors of black pepper with a punch of ethanol. This is not an overly sweet experience.

Finish

Christian: The finish on this bourbon leans medium-long to long. A relatively spicy heat wells up in the throat and flows all the way down to the gut. The finish reverberates for a while. This whiskey drinks a lot hotter than its 90 proof. Vanilla, honey, and peach all try and sneak through the finish, but it is so hard to ignore the spice on top of spice on top of spice. After the addition of water, a punch of bitterness really steps up. This is the first time I have notice any oak present in the pour.

Mike: This bourbon finishes soft to medium. There is a trace of bitterness to its close and a later surge of heat in the lower throat. Roasted and lightly salted peanut flavors linger on the palate. 

Third Wheel Phil: McFarlane’s Reserve has a medium finish. A small amount of burn is present but diminishes quickly. Like the mouth, black pepper spice is the predominant flavor I notice while sipping on this pour.

Our Rating

2.31/5.0 Rickhouses – “On The Rocks”

Final Thoughts

Christian: I don’t really know what to make of this offering from I.J.W. Whiskey Company. All of the powerful words on the website appear to be nothing more than hyperbole. But what does one really expect out of a whiskey priced at $17? Should I be disappointed at its aggressive spiciness and underdeveloped flavor profile? I am still looking for the softness typically delivered by a wheated bourbon. Everything about this bourbon just seems wrong – the marketing, the lack of transparency, and most importantly the abrasive nature of the overall drinking experience. This just isn’t for me – even at the discounted rate of $17.

Rating: 2.18 Rickhouses

Mike: Aged at least 3 years per the bottle label, this McFarlane’s Reserve shows its youthfulness early and often. There are some redeeming qualities from nose to mouth but overall the flavors are undeveloped. For a 90 proof offering, I wasn’t expecting the abundance of ethanol presented. For a younger bourbon, it was not as corn forward like most of its contemporaries, and I assume this has something to do with it being a wheated bourbon.

Rating: 2.25 Rickhouses

Third Wheel Phil: I picked this McFarlane’s Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey up at Total Wine & More in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on sale for $17.99. It was an offering that I had never had and at that low price point, there was very little risk to try. This is a whiskey I would not mind sipping on in the summer after a long day on the pontoon boat on the lake. If nothing else, I would have no problem using this bourbon as an option when cooking recipes that include whiskey as an ingredient. This is definitely not a favorite of mine, but it’s not the worst thing I’ve ever sipped on either.

Rating: 2.50 Rickhouses

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