Yellowstone 9 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon (2019 Limited Edition)

This is quite the exciting moment. I want to get to this bourbon quickly. The color is really good, perhaps a bit darker than anticipated for the proof and 12-year age limit. I spoke with the distillery before buying, and a representative mentioned getting a lot of cinnamon on the nose. I'm sure I'd agree even without that conversation. The cinnamon is somewhat stewed, similar to what you'd find in a hot toddy. Additionally, I detect strong oak and dusty notes, which I typically associate with cask strength bourbons, though not necessarily older ones (it makes sense though). My fear materialized on the first sip; the lower proof, in my view, makes other flavors seem a bit diluted and distant. I'm exaggerating slightly, but I strongly feel limited editions should always be full proof (which would make them even more limited). Nevertheless, the dusty notes form the majority of the body, along with abundant deep caramel and other common notes of well-aged bourbon. That cinnamon from the aroma is present, appearing in both the initial taste and the finish. Surprisingly, contrary to my initial concern, the finish is quite long and intense, making the proof seem significantly higher than it is. Since the distillery tends to innovate annually with its limited edition releases, there's no real basis for comparison. If we consider the original release, this seems like it came from a different place altogether. Even if the grain recipe is identical (and there's no reason to believe otherwise), the dusty character and sensation of discovering an old whiskey remind me of a comparable product from another related producer, though that one had a much higher proof and less age. I've sampled several extremely aged bourbons (over 15 years), and this one shares a similar profile while managing to achieve it at a lower proof. Overall, this was a fantastic inclusion and a great example of sticking with what works.

The aroma presents leather, vanilla, crisp apples, some orange zest, and a subtle nuttiness. Perhaps a faint floral note in the background? Not much oak. A touch of ethanol initially, which disappears after a few minutes. The palate is pleasantly coated with brown sugar, honey grahams, vanilla, apples, and a pleasant earthy quality. A bit of a bite on the back palate, but minimal spice. Vanilla and brown sugar notes persist on the medium finish, along with a whisper of oak. A few drops of water didn't alter the aroma but notably enhanced the sweeter notes on the palate, especially the mid-palate. Overall, it's quite good, though perhaps not exceptional enough for Limited Edition status. I truly enjoyed the intricate aroma; it seemed to offer something new with each sniff. The palate was more straightforward but still enjoyable. This actually reminds me of some of the superior Russell's Reserve barrel selections I've had previously, which is peculiar given that most sourced Kentucky Bourbon is presumed to originate from Heaven Hill or Barton 1792.

I enjoy bourbons with a very prominent sweet corn aroma, almost as sweet as corn-based deer attractants – they smell that good, and this one has it. Notes of caramel corn and vanilla. The palate is classic bourbon through and through. Sweet corn, vanilla, custard, and brown sugar. The finish is medium to long on the first few sips. This bourbon is absolutely delightful. It meets all expectations. I'm eager to see how it evolves with a little aeration.

The aroma is strongly alcoholic, with subtle molasses and apple notes, perhaps suggesting sherry or even cherry. The palate erupts with sherry and virgin oak intensity, then vanishes instantly on the back of the throat, leaving a smooth, warm finish with no harshness or sting as it's swallowed. A worthwhile purchase!

Excellent bourbon. The aroma presents delightful spice with notes of caramel and vanilla. The taste begins with oily brown sugar, leading to a medium to long warming finish. A quality whiskey. Sampled courtesy of TWE.

Initial intensity and heat are noticeable, with prominent barrel influence. It became significantly smoother after airing and with ice. While pricey, it's a quality drink.