Kentucky Owl Bourbon: The Back Story of A True Cult Whiskey

Caramel and dark fruit lead followed by prominent oak at the mid-palate. Let the bourbon linger in the mouth and toasted marshmallow and Juicy Fruit gum emerge; finish is long, not tannic, soft and warm, an easy drinker even at this proof. Later investigative sniffs served up vanilla ice cream on the nose and crème caramel on the palate. Final Thoughts: Since this whiskey is not available outside Kentucky, put it on your list to buy a pour—if you can find one at a reasonable price if you come here. And if you visit for fun, really do it up by driving to the Beaumont Inn and enjoy a Dixon Dedman-led bourbon tasting. The drive’s gorgeous, the Inn is amazing, and a whole tasting will cost far less than a single pour of Kentucky Owl elsewhere. Then go to the Old Owl Tavern and spend the $40 on your own pour. It’s a worthwhile indulgence. My initial tasting was done in a Glencarin glass. A taste the following night was done in a wide-mouthed glass that released the highly vaporous notes and let some complex caramel flavors develop. Maybe the Owl is best when taking flight from a roomy glass. Score: 90/100