After two previous small batch blend releases from 2XO, American whiskey blender Dixon Dedman has launched two new Kentucky straight bourbon whiskeys featuring his “Two Times Oak” blending process. American Oak (SRP $49.99) is the first ongoing blend in the Oak Series, a series of everyday offerings where Dixon will match the profile of each batch for consistent taste and character.
The Tribute Blend (SRP $99.99), meanwhile, is the third small batch blend in the Icon Series, and is a nod “to his parents and the path they paved for him.” Both blends are be available nationwide and online at ReserveBar.
American Oak’s secret blending sauce is double oak technique where Dixon introduces additional charred oak to barrels with a moderate amount of rye in the mashbill. This technique allows him to reportedly intensify the maturation process by creating more surface area for the liquid in the barrels to interact with the new charred oak, elevating the combination of flavors.
American Oak official tasting notes indicate it “moves from rich caramel and toffee on the front palate, to savory roasted nutty notes on the mid-palate, finishing with a lingering mild spice.” Itcan be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, and in classic whiskey cocktails.
“With American Oak, I am getting the opportunity to develop my first everyday expression,” said Dixon in a prepared statement. “It will always be available and always in inventory. I am especially excited to share this 2XO liquid with bartenders and mixologists who can work American Oak into their bar programs.”
The Tribute Blend is made up of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskeys composed of two proprietary mash bills from different distilling partners – one a high rye 35% bourbon mash bill and the other a low rye 16-18% bourbon mash bill. Official tasting notes indicate “the Tribute Blend’s mouthfeel is viscous and rich with notes of caramel, toffee, apricot, red cinnamon candy, and a peppery spice that lingers longer than expected.”
“The release of The Tribute Blend is a continuation of this path we’re taking with the Icon Series, and I’ve been delighted to see so many people jump on board and follow this journey,” added Dixon. “It’s humbling, yet rewarding, to have consumers energized to seek out your next release. This one honors my parents and the support and love they’ve shown me throughout my career.”
Like all the small batch blends in the Icon Series, The Tribute Blend is a limited time release. Each small batch blend in the Icon Series, it was noted, “bears a distinctive name and symbol inspired by aspects of Dixon’s life.”
Trending Stories
Latest News