A. Smith Bowman’s Latest Cask Strength Offering Is 144.5 Proof

A. Smith Bowman, based in Virginia, recently announced its second cask strength bourbon offering, this time clocking in at a mouth watering 144.5 proof.

The new A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon Batch #2, according to those behind it, was aged a minimum of 10 years with barrels hand-selected by Master Distiller Brian Prewitt and Distiller David Bock. This annual cask strength offering is bottled uncut and non chill-filtered to offer fans what’s described as “the purest whiskey-drinking experience.”

“A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon Batch #2 is a high proof whiskey lover’s dream,” said Prewitt in a prepared statement.

Bock further elaborated on the second release of Cask Strength: “While last year’s inaugural Batch #1 boasted a more delicate profile that drank like a much lower proof bourbon (though it wasn’t!), this year’s offering really roars. Batch #1’s proof snuck up on you; Batch #2 slaps you in the char. Batch #2 also contains the last of the barrels Joe Dangler, former Master Distiller at A. Smith Bowman for over 30 years, laid down. We’re humbled to honor his lasting influence with this release.”

A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon Batch #2 is available in select markets in the United States. Bottles are packaged in 750 mL and available for around $100.

Official tasting notes for this bourbon indicate it as “starting with aromas of cherry and toast with a slight hint of leather and caramel. On the palate apple and cherry flavors show up first followed by vanilla and roasted nuts, striking a balance between soft sweet floral notes and strong wood char flavors. The finish is slick, quite peppery and crisp with an aftertaste that leaves your tastebuds bouncing with memory of the delightfully intense experience.”