Late autumn
and early winter are my favorite seasons; aside from the inevitable common cold
symptoms (daily one-a-day vitamins be damned), it’s a time for holidays,
family, food, and of course, amazing whiskey. This year for Thanksgiving, we
opened a bottle of Heaven Hill Select Stock. These are of limited availability
(unfortunately), and can only be purchased at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage
Center in Bardstown Kentucky. This particular release (2016) is a barrel proof
wheat bourbon finished in cognac barrels.
Details:
8 years old w/ 21 month cognac barrel finish
8 years old w/ 21 month cognac barrel finish
126.4 Proof
Mash bill:
68% Corn, 20% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
Price:
$150
Nose: Sweet with powdered sugar, dark fruits, baking
spices, and toasted oak.
Taste: The cognac finish shines on the palate with
notes of honey, raisins, and pepper. It’s well-balanced, yet mellow, with hints
of maple syrup, cinnamon, and toasted oak.
Finish: Baking spices linger for a dry and
mouthwatering withdrawal.
Conclusion: From
nose to finish, the best way to describe this bourbon is rich. 21 months in cognac
barrels is a long time, but I think it was necessary to mellow out what would
have been very hot and spicy wheat bourbon. I personally am not a huge cognac
fan, but this certainly meets my expectations.