Frank August Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Who is Frank August? Their website states, "Frank August is a call to be open and undisguised. An invitation to come together and share in America’s spirit." Which is amusing given how little information is available about the liquid within the very stylish bottle. We understand it's 100 proof, likely sourced from Kentucky, and small-batched from 10-15 barrels. We also know Frank August isn't a person. The individual behind Frank August is Johnathan Crocker, a former fashion executive. Knowing this provides some context for Frank August; to a degree, this bourbon embodies high fashion. Nose: Like a buttery shortbread cookie Palate: Rich, with vanilla and sugar, reminiscent of a baked chess bar Finish: Brief, disappearing as mysteriously as it appeared This bourbon is classic and refined—not bold or intricate like higher proof or older bourbons. In essence, it's like a dressy pair of jeans: it looks good and serves the purpose of denim, but you wouldn't wear it for strenuous outdoor labor.

Just a sniff reveals inviting vanilla immediately, with hints of caramel and warm sweetness that make you want to dive right in. On the palate, Frank August Small Batch Bourbon remains smooth and balanced, presenting layers of vanilla, toasted sugar, light oak, and subtle baking spice. Its refined softness keeps everything in check without tasting thin or uninteresting. The finish is clean and enduring, with gentle spice and oak fading slowly. It's an easy-drinking spirit that still feels deliberate and well-made. This was one of my favorite reliable bottles long before the awards and price increase, and it earned that status through consistency and balance, not just popularity.

Nose: subtle and gentle notes of cherry, cinnamon, and vanilla. Difficult to pinpoint exact characteristics, yet no unpleasant aspects detected. Taste: cherry, nutmeg, cinnamon, with a lingering, complete warmth on the palate. A whisper of maple appears at the end. More: this is an excellent bourbon to serve to companions and newcomers to bourbon, as well as anyone valuing straightforwardness above distinctiveness. There's nothing disagreeable, out of place, or incorrect about this offering, but also nothing novel, distinctive, or captivating. It's dependable and executes the "bourbon" profile capably. It's a direct, middle-of-the-road experience. For my own preference, I lean towards more lively and engaging selections, but the distiller is succeeding in its execution, even if the approach is familiar.

The aroma presents subtly with notes of oak, brown sugar, molasses, dried blossoms, and a hint of vanilla. Everything is exceptionally well-integrated, allowing for an individual exploration of each distinct aroma. It creates a very welcoming impression, preparing you well for the initial taste. The taste delivers a smooth wave of oak, black pepper, dried blossoms, and a whisper of cherry. Mellow notes of vanilla and brown sugar temper the spice, just enough to soften it without overpowering the profile. The lingering aftertaste is moderately long, offering persistent spice and a touch of robust oak that continues to reveal more and more nuances.

If an extraterrestrial visited Earth and desired to sample "bourbon"... this is the one I'd present. I'm not claiming it's the ultimate beverage experience, but it genuinely represents the quintessential Kentucky straight bourbon I've encountered. The aroma and palate are pure classic bourbon, with one acquaintance likening it to "buttered popcorn." The finish offers a pleasant spicy kick. I'm quite fond of this bourbon; my ratings reflect that I don't usually gush about many spirits. Grab this if it's available.

Seems like it's barely over 4 years old. Immature. The color is a bit pale. The flavor is bright, light, likely due to its age. The smell matches a typical high-rye profile. Easy to drink, it got better after a couple of weeks. All in all, it's an acceptable bourbon. I likely won't purchase it again, particularly for the $81 price. It does come with a cool heavy metal topper you could use to hit a party crasher with.