Dustin Gandoff
Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series: Frankfort Review
Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series: Frankfort is the second release of the limited edition concept initially launched in 2022 by Beam Suntory. Following up last year’s release, the Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series will highlight Kentucky terroir. All three bourbons were distilled using the same mashbill at the same time, aged at different Beam Suntory campuses, and bottled at an age statement of 204 months, which is 17 years. There is an abundance of tree coverage at Beam’s Frankfort campus, and the company has chosen to label the bottles with the same age statement and proof.
Nose
The bourbon opens with heavy rye spice layered on top of aged oak. Cinnamon and vanilla spice mix, baked pie crust, and a thin vein of summer fruits all provide a balanced opening to the sip. The bourbon’s proof is evident yet not distracting.
Palate
Vanilla and cinnamon sticks lead off the palate, followed by cinnamon spice and baking spices. Notes of charred oak, tobacco, leather, burnt caramel, and dried raisins create a great midpoint and keep one coming back for more.
Finish
The finish starts off with a burst of cinnamon spice and is joined by light graham cracker. Additional notes of dried oak, leather, and vanilla spice appear, adding depth. Throughout all this, rye spice and heat continually build, contributing to the overall character of the finish. As the flavors drop off, the bourbon ends with a peppery rye spice note and dried oak.
Uniqueness
The backstory behind the Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series is worth repeating. Its unique concept of aging the same whiskey at different campuses allows consumers a fun way to compare and contrast how the landscape of Kentucky shapes a bourbon. Highly aged bourbon from Jim Beam is still a rarity, and this series provides a good reminder of the impact that different aging locations can have on a bourbon.
Value
The value for this bourbon is in line with today’s expectations for a 17 year old bourbon. While this series could have been released as another higher aged Knob Creek release, Beam Suntory chose to provide consumers with a fun way to try highly aged Beam bourbon. The only downside is that the brand has no plans to release the full series as a three bottle set, meaning you have to purchase each bottle separately to have the full experience.
Overall
Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series: Frankfort stands out from the Clermont release with its unique flavor components. Both are well above average bourbons, but Frankfort offers a better palate and finish. This series is a great reminder of the impact that different aging locations can have on a bourbon, and is an interesting and unique concept in terms of what high-aged Jim Beam tastes like. Overall, those who manage to get a bottle of each (and not drink through them before the Boston release) are in for a treat
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Beam Suntory
Distillery: James Beam
Release Date: August 2023
Proof: 110
Age: 17 Years
Mashbill: Undisclosed
Color: Bright Bronze
MSRP: $170 (2023)
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The Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series: Frankfort release showcases Beam Suntory’s dedication to highlighting the unique terroir of Kentucky in their bourbon. With a consistent age statement and proof on all three bottles, this limited edition release offers a balanced nose and palate with notes of spice and sweetness. A must-try for any bourbon enthusiast.
Ates with a slight nuttiness that creeps onto the side of the tongue. As the spice fades, notes of cherry, pear, and apple start to emerge, giving the bourbon a fruity sweetness that balances out the initial intensity. The mouthfeel is full and smooth, with a nice warmth that coats the palate.
Finish
The finish is long and satisfying with lingering notes of warm spices and oak. The fruit sweetness remains, giving a pleasant contrast to the spice. Overall, Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series: Frankfort is a well-rounded and well-balanced bourbon that showcases the unique terroir of Kentucky. This release is a must-try for bourbon enthusiasts and showcases Beam Suntory’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Ate, with brown sugar, honey, and a hint of baked apple and pear following close behind. There is also a subtle nuttiness and leather note that adds depth to the sip. The oak is well-balanced and not overpowering, adding a nice touch of tannins to the overall flavor profile.
Overall, the Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series: Frankfort is a well-crafted bourbon with a balanced flavor profile and a noticeable influence of the Kentucky terroir. The 17 years of aging and the unique mashbill used add complexity and depth to the spirit. This limited edition release is a must-try for any bourbon lover.