Yellowstone Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon
46.5% ABV
£52.00 from Ocado
Today is National Bourbon Day (14th June 2022)
Available from Ocado, Yellowstone Select is a masterful fusion of flavours from seventh-generation master distiller Stephen Beam – descendant of the legendary Beam and Dant whiskey families.
Distilled at Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky, the whiskey features a blend of 4-year-old and 7-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons.
Nose.
A spice driven sweet initial impression. For a straight bourbon I expect there is a significant amount of rye in the mash of this whiskey. Rye is quite prominent in its earthy spiciness. There is definite sweetness though. Lots of vanilla and cinnamon. Rye crackers, with nuts and seeds. Warming ginger and sweet sticky cinnamon buns.
Palate.
The higher alcohol content really transports some serious flavour. Presenting itself in a very ‘smooth’ and viscous way. Lots of thick sticky caramel and spiced toffee. Vanilla laden fudge. Some nicely balanced spice comes into play with a noticeable spearmint note.
Finish
A refreshingly light finish. The spearmint carries through with a little sugar and spice. Makes you hunger for another sip.
Adding water.
Adding a small splash of water gives a sweeter presentation removing some of the spicier notes in favour of a sweeter, more vanilla rich experience. The spearmint is lessened also and the whiskey becomes a much easier, traditional bourbon experience. It’s worth trying with and without water to find which you prefer. It really is two different drinks in one!
Conclusion.
A delightful bourbon with some complexity and exciting variations with and without water. Recommended for those who wants to try something different from their normal bourbon choice. I can see this whiskey working brilliantly in cocktails and would really boost up an old fashioned or Manhattan to new levels.
Scotch and Sci-Fi 