Hannah’s Daviess County Straight Bourbon Review
Original review written April 5, 2022
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Classic bourbon, classic flavors, and a schooling in how to master the basics. No, it’s nothing wild, but it’s easily “staple” quality, and I’m happy to have it on my shelf when I just want BOURBON. 87/100
VITALS:
– Made In: Bardstown, Kentucky, USA
– Distiller: Lux Row Distillers (specific distiller undisclosed)
– Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
– Age: nas
– Mash Bill: blend of ryed and wheated mash bills (specifics undisclosed)
– Casks: undisclosed char
– Barrel Entry Proof: undisclosed
– ABV: 48% (96 proof)
– Price: $45.95 USD in Idaho 2022
Visit daviesscountybourbon.com for more information
ENJOYMENT METHOD:
I enjoyed this spirit neat from a Glencairn glass with father and fellow Whiskey for the Ages reviewer, Brian.
Check out his review for this bourbon here!
SETTING:
This bourbon begs to be enjoyed outside, perhaps at the fringes of a swamp, with tall reeds and grasses surrounding you in the early morning. This is a comforting, sweet bourbon, that can give perspective and be a friend all in one. The air is brisk, and maybe there’s a cloud or two on the horizon, but the day is looking to be a good one anyways.
Photo by insung yoon on Unsplash
NOSE:
This smells heavily of grain on the first draw, predominantly wheat and grass. It’s soft and mellow and definitely doesn’t sting the nose in the slightest. Nevertheless, there still is some black pepper on deep inhales, as well as a prevalent barrel char and oak. There’s a bit of citrus zest which makes for both an acidic and bitter component that melt together well. I can also find a floral element, perhaps like roses, but these roses have certainly not matured and bloomed yet. Not much to speak of with fruit, but I could sense some dark dried ones, like raisins and currants.
PALATE:
– Mouth Feel: There’s a tickle and raspy-ness, but it really is quite smooth all at once.
– Balance: It’s a sweeter bourbon, but its foundation of oak wood chips makes the blend very solid overall.
– Visual: Tawny in color, this doesn’t leave too much of a defined crown, but there are a few long clinging legs nonetheless.
– Taste: It’s taken me about half a dozen sips to begin understanding this bourbon. The raspier mouth feel covers some of the flavors, but underneath that tickle are currants, white pepper, cinnamon, and the grain of the nose. There’s also this quality I can only call the “essence” of bourbon. It’s warm, it’s sweet, but not necessarily from intense fruit or sugars – just sweet. I do notice some floral element here as well, like rose, but not overpowering, just enhancing the natural bourbon sweetness and spice.
The alcohol is incredibly mild, but a Kentucky chew does wake it up a little. The grain becomes more alive, and there are now other fruits to find, like peaches and plums. It’s a worthwhile chew, to be sure.
This bourbon isn’t complex at all, with a subtle wood chip foundation; however, it still manages to shine really well with the flavors that are here and maximize quality out of them.
FINISH:
– Lasting Power: Short-medium. There’s minimal warmth, but there is a bit of aftertaste that lingers.
– Between Sips: Chocolate covered raisins (maybe even a white chocolate) can be found here between sips, and it’s the oddest thing I have found yet in a finish, but it’s welcome and certainly, very different.
– No More: Vanilla, caramel, marshmallows, and simple syrup emerge the longer I sip from this pour. Its sweetness continues to grow, but everything about this bourbon continues to grow on me along with it. I’m enjoying this pour more than I anticipated, but not in the way I thought I would. It’s authentic, classic bourbon, and it’s just solid all around.
The empty Glencairn is straight up oaky sawdust, and entirely delicious. Warm, deep tones, and how a classic bourbon should finish – plain and simple.
WORTH THE PRICE?
At $50, I think this is well worth the price. It’s unique with a fun finish and softer flavors, but so rustic and classic in its bourbon essence, it can fit on any shelf. If you see it, don’t be afraid to take the leap and see what it’s all about. If you like bourbon, I don’t think it’s possible to be upset with this offering, and the price matches the quality, without question.
DAVIESS COUNTY STRAIGHT BOURBON REVIEW RATING: 87/100
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