Cream of Kentucky Cask Strength Bourbon Review: Is It Worth $95?

BOTTLE DETAILS

• DISTILLER: Not disclosed, but likely Brown-Forman given the mashbill
• MASH BILL: 72% Corn | 18% Rye | 10% Malt
• AGE: Not disclosed
• YEAR: 2024
• PROOF: 106.4 (53.2% ABV)
• MSRP: $95
• BUY ONLINE: Available online at just a handful of retailers

STEVE’S NOTES

SHARE WITH: Any bourbon fan.

WORTH THE PRICE: No.

BOTTLE, BAR OR BUST: Bar.

OVERALL: The nose is simple: oak, baking spice, a little jam cake and that’s about it. On the palate it leads with toffee, baking spice, black pepper, dark stone fruit, some dried fig, a little pipe tobacco and some charred oak. It finishes warm and hangs around a long time. Judging by its light color and lean mouthfeel, it’s about 5 years old, which would explain its lack of complexity.

It’s good, sturdy Kentucky whiskey, and based on its Old Forester mashbill, that’ll give you a hint at some of its flavor), but it lacks the boldness and depth of earlier CoK releases. That it’s trading on legendary Four Roses master distiller Jim Rutledge’s fine name likely explains the high MSRP. Yet despite my respect for him and his work, I’m not reaching that deeply into my pocket to purchase this.

BRAND NOTES

The 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon The 2024 Cask Strength Bourbon features a bold proof of 106.2, offering a rich, uncut flavor profile. This bourbon highlights the deep, caramelized notes of toffee, oak, and vanilla. The intense flavor and warming finish make this a standout choice for aficionados and collectors.

Aroma: Vanilla wafers blend with mincemeat pie and cashews.

Taste: Pleasing notes of black tea with a whisper of coconut, and dark berries.

Finish: Soft cola fades into a light nutty oak.

Disclaimer: Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.