Black Maple Hill Oregon Straight Rye Whiskey Limited Edition 750ml

Black Maple Hill

is a bourbon brand that has undergone significant changes since its inception. Originally launched in 2000 by CVI Brands, the brand gained notoriety for sourcing high-quality whiskey from Kentucky, particularly from the famed Stitzel-Weller distillery. The original expressions of Black Maple Hill were highly sought after, often aged between 11 to 22 years, and became a staple among bourbon enthusiasts. However, as sourcing older whiskey became increasingly difficult and expensive, the brand’s quality began to decline.

Transition to Oregon Production

In 2014, the Black Maple Hill brand was revived with a new identity under Stein Distillery located in Joseph, Oregon. This transition marked a shift from the previously sourced Kentucky bourbons to younger distillates produced in Oregon. The current offerings are typically aged for a minimum of four years and have been described as having a lighter flavor profile compared to their predecessors. The packaging also underwent a refresh, with new labels distinguishing the bourbon (blue) and rye (green).

Tasting Notes

The tasting notes for Black Maple Hill bourbons reveal a complex yet sometimes unfulfilling experience. On the nose, it presents grassy and yeasty aromas reminiscent of bread dough, accompanied by hints of caramel and vanilla. The palate features flavors of corn and light spices like black pepper and lemon zest but lacks depth compared to older expressions. The finish is generally short to medium in length with lingering notes of herbs and residual mash flavors. Critics have noted that while it may appeal to some drinkers, it does not live up to the legacy established by earlier bottlings.

Current Market Position

Today, Black Maple Hill is often viewed as a premium product with prices reflecting its limited availability; bottles can command prices upwards of $1,999 for certain releases1. Despite this high price point, many reviews suggest that newer iterations do not justify their cost when compared to other bourbons available on the market. While it may still attract collectors or those curious about its history, many connoisseurs recommend exploring other options that offer better value and flavor complexity.

Conclusion

In summary, Black Maple Hill represents both a storied past and a challenging present within the bourbon landscape. Its evolution from an esteemed Kentucky source to an Oregon-based craft distillation reflects broader trends in whiskey production but has left some fans longing for the quality associated with its original releases. As such, it remains an intriguing choice for those interested in exploring different facets of bourbon craftsmanship while being aware of its current limitations in comparison to its historical acclaim.