Editor’s Note: We received a review sample of this whiskey from the brand. However, in accordance with our editorial policies, this has not influenced the outcome of our review in any way.
Heaven’s Door Spirits has, for several years now, been a pet project of legendary musical artist Bob Dylan in his role as a co-founder. The team at this whiskey brand, led by Master Distiller Ken Pierce and Master Blender Alex Moore, strives to constantly innovate with new finishing methods for a unique collection of limited-time offerings. This has led them to the recent debut of The Exploration Series.
This new whiskey lineup in the Heaven’s Door portfolio will unveil two unique expressions annually, with the first one out the door being deeply rooted in French influence.
What’s in the bottle
The Heaven’s Door Exploration Series I Calvados Finish, which is being reviewed here, started life as a matured blend of Heaven Door’s Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey. It is then finished inside freshly dumped Calvados brandy casks that previously held an apple brandy from Normandy, France, for at least two years.
Introduced medium-heavy toasted French oak staves also added an extra layer of wood exposure to the finishing process.
“Our new medium-heavy toasted French oak staves bring forth balanced complexity and enhanced aroma, culminating in a dark color and a smoother, creamier mouthfeel, providing a truly enriched flavor experience,” said Moore when this whiskey was released.
This expression has been aged for at least five years, bottled at 108 proof, and is available for $79.99.
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