Ann Arbor Distilling Co. - Fox River Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This sample has been waiting for me for over a year. I received it at a holiday gathering at a relative's house in Windsor back in 2017. I've accumulated so many samples, it's challenging to keep track. Regardless, this is a limited release of approximately 1,200 bottles from a local craft distillery in Ann Arbor, Michigan, about an hour from my home. It's bottled at a distinctive 51.25% ABV, has a natural amber honey color, and I suspect it's not chill-filtered. When it was available, it cost around $58, but it's certainly all gone given the small bottle count. The grain bill consists of 71% corn, 25% rye, and 4% malted barley. It's aged in new American oak barrels and then finished in French oak. The nose is mildly sweet and very herbal. I detect rye spice, mint, and strong oak. There are grassy notes with hints of dill and a slight mineral quality. It also has orange zest, dark cherries, apples, and pears. Peanut/peanut butter, almond paste, smooth vanilla, cocoa powder, and buttercream are present. Some baking spices like cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon are noticeable too. The palate is somewhat straightforward, which I attribute to its youth. I taste minty rye and some corn sweetness. Peanuts, oak, and chili spice are present. There are apple skins, a mild bitterness, and more peanuts, along with orange oil. Cloves and nutmeg come through. There's almost no burn considering the high alcohol content. A medium to full-bodied mouthfeel that starts creamy, then becomes mouthwatering, and finally dry. The finish is medium-short, featuring rye, mint, oak, and orange zest. It's not bad for a limited, high-rye bourbon from a local craft distillery. I checked their website, and this (along with the straight rye released at the same time) isn't even listed, suggesting it was an extremely limited run. I felt both surprised and unsurprised. Surprised by the sweetness of the aroma and the smoothness given the high ABV, but I also expected something uncomplicated and simple, which is what this turned out to be. I can imagine it would work very well in a classic cocktail or with a large ice cube. I regret not grabbing another sample when I had the chance, as I may never get to try it again. Cheers

A smoky and sweet profile featuring notes of caramel and vanilla. It's enjoyable neat, and on the rocks, it offers more smoke and a touch of rye.

Smooth, with fruity pumpkin spice and a warm vanilla finish.

Abundant in taste.

A little harsh.