Old Elk Port Cask Finish Straight Bourbon Whiskey 750ml

Old Elk Port Cask

Finish Bourbon is a unique expression from the Old Elk Distillery, located in Fort Collins, Colorado. This bourbon is classified as a straight bourbon that has undergone an additional finishing process in port casks sourced from Portugal. The distillery launched its Cask Finish Series in 2021, and the Port Cask Finish is one of its standout offerings.

Key Characteristics

• Proof and Age: This bourbon is bottled at a robust proof of 108.1, which translates to an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 54.05%. It has a minimum age of five years, with an additional finishing period of 10 months to one year in port casks.
• Mash Bill: The mash bill consists of 51% corn, 34% malted barley, and 15% rye. This combination contributes to the bourbon’s rich flavor profile while maintaining the traditional characteristics expected from high-quality bourbon.
• Color: The whiskey presents a beautiful copper hue, indicative of its aging process and interaction with the oak barrels.

Tasting Notes

Nose

The aroma is inviting and complex, featuring rich red fruit notes alongside a noticeable wine essence derived from the port casks. There are hints of brown sugar and nuttiness that evoke memories of baked goods like banana bread.

Palate

On the palate, Old Elk Port Cask Finish Bourbon offers a rounded and coating mouthfeel. The influence of the port finish elevates the base bourbon with pronounced flavors of dark fruits such as plum, raisin, and black cherry. These fruity notes are complemented by classic bourbon elements like oak and spice.

Finish

The finish is well-balanced but not overly long. It features lingering fruit-forward notes along with a dash of spice that adds complexity without overwhelming sweetness.

Craftsmanship

The creation of Old Elk Port Cask Finish Bourbon showcases the expertise of Master Blender Melinda Maddox and Master Distiller Greg Metze. Their combined experience ensures that this expression does not fall into the common pitfall of being over-finished—a challenge often faced by other port-finished whiskeys. Instead, they have managed to strike a balance that highlights both the bourbon’s inherent qualities and the enriching characteristics imparted by the port casks.

Conclusion

Overall, Old Elk Port Cask Finish Bourbon stands out as an exceptional addition to any whiskey enthusiast’s collection. Its harmonious blend of flavors makes it suitable for both seasoned connoisseurs and those new to finished bourbons alike. With its unique profile and craftsmanship, it exemplifies what can be achieved when traditional bourbon-making techniques meet innovative finishing processes.