We all know that Bardstown Bourbon Company has a variety of award-winning whiskey’s, from the Chateau De Laubade, Ferrand and of course the original Muscat Mistelle. However, there was a collaboration that was released in August that I believe flew mostly under the radar. Which collaboration is that you might ask? The Fercullen, a blend of 17 year old Tennessee, two Kentucky distillates both 12 years and 21 year old Irish Whiskey from Powerscourt Distillery. While the hype train was squarely focused on Chateau De Laubade II this collaboration may have hit the nail on the head when it comes to the art of blending better than anything BBC Co. has done.
Just the Facts:
Proof: 102.4
Mash Bill: 36%TN (C:84%/R:8%/MB:8%), 24% KY (C:75%/R:13%/MB/12%), 20% KY (C:78%/R:10% MB12%) and 20% Irish (MB:100%)
Style: Blended Whiskey
Source: TN, KY, Ireland
Jake’s Tasting Notes:
Color: Amber
Nose: the roasted barely shines bright on the front of the nose, which gives way to grain forward notes mixed with cinnamon sugar. You almost smell the creaminess of the whiskey before you take the first sip.
Palate: As you take the first sip you understand the perfect balance that this whiskey has created getting the front end of the American whiskey with the clean finish of the Irish whiskey. The flavors are a vibrant mix of honey, cracked pepper, citrus and cinnamon. Each of these characteristics you find coming from each part of the blend which gives it body and character.
Finish: The finish is true Irish whiskey light, yet powerful. Hints of citrus and honey fade overtime as you finish the pour.
Closing Thoughts
Fercullen, is it the best collaboration? Close, but the square bottle of Muscat Mistelle still sits on top for me. This blend is a masterful blend and needs the recognition that other collaboration have garnered in the past as Dan Callaway and the team really shined on this expression.
