This is a distinct single barrel, barrel proof selection from Vintage Wine and Spirits in Nashville, TN, Barrel #65 of 75 released in 2019. Information about Wathen’s or the Charles Medley Distillery is scarce, but research indicates they currently have access to an unnamed distiller (Heaven Hill) for their distillation runs using their own mashbill. It's then aged (presumably in KY, given it's a Kentucky Straight Bourbon) and bottled by them in California. Regardless, this specific bottle has captured my interest. The aroma is sweet, featuring notes of white vanilla frosting, caramel, sweet corn, a touch of grassiness/mustiness, caramelized red apples and plums, barrel char, and milk chocolate. It's very inviting. The taste is sweet with a slightly thicker, oilier texture on the palate, accompanied by a hint of dryness. Flavors include sweet corn, undertones of dark fruit, leather, vanilla, barrel char, and a suggestion of mixed nuts from a can. The finish begins with that grassy note, followed by lingering barrel char, caramel, and sweet corn, making for a lengthy conclusion. What a pleasant surprise! I was unsure of what to anticipate, possibly a Heaven Hill profile (which it strongly resembles). It's akin to Heaven Hill Bottled In Bond, but at barrel proof. I am thoroughly enjoying this.
Wathen's Barrel Proof Bourbon (58.68%)
Whiskey Bourbon Kentucky No age statement 58.7% ABV
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About this bottle
The mash bill for this expression consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. It is fermented using a yeast strain that has been preserved through eight generations of the Medley family before distillation in a copper pot still. Bottled at 58.68% ABV, this release is limited to 25 barrels.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 17 parsed reviews.
A favorite bourbon at my local bar. It has a medium body but offers a multitude of flavors to ponder on an exteeeeeeended finish that leaves my mouth dry and me stunned. Slightly musty, with hints of grass, vanilla, and buttery caramel.
The bottle I had was a barrel select at a local bar. Aroma - spicy and sweet, like honey juniper berries Taste - spice forward with a bit of citrus and caramel Finish - lingering and hot, spice stays with you for awhile
It's acceptable, quite spicy, though it might need time to air out. A bit underwhelming compared to others I've had. More alcohol taste than corn or nutty notes.
Smooth. The alcohol content feels light and coats the mouth. It has acidity, with a pleasing oak sawdust, lightness, and wood character that is bright.
It tastes like eating sweet corn in a field of freshly cut grass. I enjoy the flavor. Adding a little ice enhances it even further.
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