American

Whiskey Review: Broken Barrel Americana

We review Broken Barrel Americana, an American whiskey that's finished in tanks with different types of barrel staves.

OVERALL RATING

6
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Broken Barrel Americana

Tasting Notes

About:

50% ABV. MSRP $35. 750 ml bottle. Mash bill: 80% corn, 14% rye, 6% malted barley. Oak bill: 40% charred American oak, 40% toasted American oak, 20% American apple brandy cask.
Appearance:
The color is a light reddish brown that turns golden when held up to the light.
Nose:
Vanilla, apple, caramel, and baking spice make up the bulk of the nose. A light, aromatic grassiness makes itself known as well.
Palate:
Honey sweetness spiced with oak and light rye takes the forefront. Grassy and nutty notes come into play as well. The mouthfeel is silky, yet the drink leaves a suede-like grippiness on the tongue. The alcohol is punchy. The vanilla from the nose finally reveals itself on the palate, which is lingering and warm.
Finish:
Comments:
I love that American whiskey’s loose definition allows it to be a playground for distillers and whiskey companies to push boundaries and use their imagination. The cleverly named oak bill creates a new avenue to develop flavor alongside the mash bill. Having said that, this whiskey lacked some of the complexity and smoothness I look for in a sipping whiskey. The flavors were interesting and a little bit different, but did not hook me and reel me in to keep going back. rnrnHowever, I think Broken Barrel Americana would make an excellent cocktail. At only $35 dollars a bottle, it may well be worth your while to pick up a bottle the next time you’re craving a whiskey sour.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Larissa Banitt

Larissa Banitt, a writer and nurse hailing from the Pacific Northwest, blends her passions for food, whiskey, and animals into a life rich in adventure. When she's not caring for patients, you'll likely find her exploring the outdoors with her dog, trail-riding with her horse, or enjoying a cozy crochet session with her feline companions.

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