Bourbon

Bourbon Review: Old Elk Straight Bourbon Port Cask Finish

We review Old Elk Straight Bourbon Port Cask Finish, aged a minimum of five years and finished in 59-gallon aged port casks from Portugal for an additional 10 months to 1 year.

OVERALL RATING

8
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Old Elk Straight Bourbon Port Cask Finish review

Tasting Notes

About:

Aged a minimum of five years and finished in 59-gallon aged port casks from Portugal for an additional 10 months to 1 year; 108.1 Proof, 54.05% ABV; Mash Bill: 51% Corn, 34% Barley, and 15% Rye; 750ml; MSRP $99.99.
Appearance:
It’s quite lovely, with a rich tawny and auburn color that even holds up against a light background. In a lowlight bar, this would certain be perceived more like old oak or burnt umber.
Nose:
Apples, port, oak, a hint of sweet fruit and a moderate ethanol kick.
Palate:
The overall experience is a classically bold bourbon, with a dash of rye spice, oak, stove-warmed sugar, and a subtle hint of port from the year of finishing. The 108.1 proof certainly pops right out of the dram, and had I not known the actual proof in advance of my first sip, I would have pegged this a touch higher. Now, to be clear, that’s not a bad thing (at all) but for those more casual drinkers that stick to lower proofs, you will note it. Add a few drops of water or a small ice cube and this offering is more than approachable for even a causal bourbon fan.
Finish:
Comments:
A port finished bourbon isn’t anything new, but in combination with Old Elk’s fairly uncommon 34% malted barley in the mash bill, the combination certainly elevates this limited release straight bourbon. At $99.99, the price seems on-point for the quality and unique flavor of this bourbon.

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.

Devon Lyon

Devon Lyon is a seasoned content creator, with two decades of experience producing videos and crafting compelling copy and scripts for clients worldwide. Despite his natural wanderlust, Devon's heart belongs to the Pacific Northwest. He is captivated by the region's thriving craft spirit scene, world-class wines, and ubiquitous breweries, making life on the "best" coast a delightful experience. Above all, Devon's passion lies in whiskey. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in launching the Rushlight Agency, a boutique marketing firm. In his leisure time, Devon enjoys mastering his Hasselblad medium format 501cm camera, fly fishing, snowshoeing, and embarking on international adventures with his partner and daughter.

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