Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
One of the best things to come from the current whiskey resurgence (besides more whiskeys) has been the breaking up of some of whiskey’s stodgiest cliches. Drinkers, in general, are learning that age statements aren’t everything, no one region produces the best spirits, and blends can be great. For a clear illustration of this changing perspective, look to the fact that there are now renowned blenders.
Dixon Dedman is an established figure in whiskey. Entering the industry as a bourbon hobbyist with a background in hospitality, he earned his name creating the Kentucky Owl brand in 2014. The brand, named after his great grandfather’s defunct line of whiskey, put out a highly regarded series of blends.
Its success would grow to the point where Dixon felt it was too big for him. He left in 2021, hoping to keep his vision more grounded.
He returned to the business for 2XO, after catching the eye of the Prestige Beverage Group. Thanks to his reputation as a skilled blender, they hired him to consult on some of their barrels. He liked the liquid they had, and has been working with them on a series of small batch blends. After two initial releases, Phoenix Blend and the Innkeeper’s Blend, he’s building out the brand with two more offerings: American Oak and the Tribute Blend.
The Tribute Blend is the third in the “icon” series of blends, after Phoenix and Innkeeper. It’s another limited release, small batch blend. Dedman dedicates this release to his parents, as thanks for the support they’ve given him in his career. The bottles will have different labels, each with iconography demonstrating a different part of Dedman’s life. It’s a personal touch, highlighting the individual behind the spirit. It’s another reminder that blends can now be personal and artistic, rather than just a way to ensure consistency.
Tasting Notes: 2XO Tribute Blend
Vital Stats: 52% ABV; Mash bill: Undisclosed mix of high rye and low rye bourbons; 104 Proof; MSRP 99.99 USD.
Appearance: Tawny
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Nose: There’s a rich, almost perfumed level of fruit and floral scent on the nose. I can pick out fresh plum, strawberry, hints of rose, and an undercurrent of vetiver. As I get a bit deeper, the familiar bourbon note of creamy vanilla is waiting, like a creamy dessert at the end of a garden walk.
Palate: The floral scent translates into a bright body with an assertive burn. There’s an almost sparkling hit of fresh cherry with hints of rose. The mouthfeel is light, but the burn comes on quickly. In the finish, it spreads across the palate and deepens. The fruity notes become a sugary caramel and the floral notes become dark and mossy.
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