Leopold Bros. 4 Year Straight Bourbon

This isn't just another craft distillery bourbon, and Todd Leopold isn't just another distiller. His 25 years of experience seem to have given him and his brother the confidence and clarity of vision to disregard mainstream industry conventions and pursue a path that he states prioritizes quality and the environment over economic efficiency. Their unusual mash bill consists of 64% corn, 17% malted barley, and 15% Abruzzi heritage rye. An open fermentation process allows wild yeasts from the distillery's garden to interact in the distillery's wooden tanks. Entry proofs and temperatures are lower, and fermentation times are longer compared to larger producers. All of this results in a bourbon with a distinct flavor profile that I would choose over most Four Roses or Buffalo Trace products. The nose is so heavily influenced by rye that I would never have identified this as bourbon in a blind tasting; it has notes of clove and black tea, similar to a chai blend. On the palate, it starts dry and then develops into orange rind, with a touch of sweetness and a hint of oak spice. The finish is dry with orange notes. The proof keeps everything in balance, and while the five-year version increases it to 50%, I preferred this version. I don't drink much bourbon, but if I were to keep a bottle on hand, it would be this.

Nose: malt and caramel with some characteristic spicy notes. Taste: toasted baking spices and caramel, with hints of chocolate and nuttiness. Finish: lingering spice and a touch of dryness, very little burn.

A solid bourbon. Intense. The aroma has corny caramel with a hint of herbal licorice. It's subtle initially with a slight spicy finish. Perhaps a sticky syrup on the palate. It feels unique yet familiar.

A good bourbon. Intense. The nose has strong corn and caramel notes with a touch of herbal licorice. It starts subtly, finishing with a slight spice. Perhaps a syrupy texture on the finish. Distinctive yet familiar.

A traditional bourbon aroma. It has flavors of grain and a hint of sourness. Suitable for sipping or for an Old Fashioned.

Young, with green apple notes and a light oaky character. The finish is moderate. A pleasant drink.