Olivia Taylor
Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon: A Unique Grain-Forward Take on Straight Bourbon
Frey Ranch Distillery is an estate distillery located in northern Nevada, and their Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon was released as a permanent line extension in July, 2023. Not only does Frey Ranch grow their grains onsite and malt their barley onsite, but they also famously use a mashbill of 100% malted corn for their bourbon. Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon takes their flagship bourbon up a notch, featuring non-chill filtered, small batch whiskey and bottled at cask strength, with proofs ranging from 120-132.
Nose
Caramel and raisins mingle with peppery oak and buttered cornbread. It has a dense grain-forward presence, with a swell of ethanol punching through. A hint of pear emerges on the backend. What it lacks in balance, it makes up for with pure vigor, making for an intriguing, albeit clumsy, introduction to the sip.
Palate
Caramelized dense oak and creme brulee are followed by a rush of spice. Bouts of citrus, raisin, cinnamon, and caramel coalesce against a prominent grain-forward presence. It by no means comes across as lacking age, instead doubling down on the flavors brought forward by its homegrown ingredients. Like the nose, the palate’s overall balance is traded for sheer impact and robust flavor.
Finish
Spicy heat ascends and holds throughout the long finish. Caramel, raisin, and citrus carry over from the palate, along with a tapering grain note. The bourbon finally achieves balance as the flavors fade in the finish, which will satisfy less adventurous appetites. It’s a pleasing end cap, and one that closes the bourbon on a more widely appreciated ending.
Uniqueness
Frey Ranch Distillery falls into a growing number of estate distilleries that focus on the terroir of their particular region and distill their whiskeys from grains grown onsite. Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon takes the distillery’s flagship bourbon and amplifies it in many ways. Most notably, the grains are highlighted with Farm Strength Uncut, which is not necessarily the case with the standard 90 proof version. This contributes to its lack of balance, but ultimately makes for a bourbon that tastes unlike anything else.
Value
Craft whiskey generally falls into the$50-$80 range, and Farm Strength Uncut adds $30 to that price point. For bourbon drinkers seeking a traditional, quintessential Kentucky bourbon flavor profile, it’s just simply not for them. But for those seeking a less-than-common, “unique” flavor profile, it hits the spot. It’s a fair value.
Overall
Grain-forward in the best of ways, what Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon lacks in balance it makes up for in pure vigor. Straight bourbon, in general, has a fairly tight range of flavor profiles as compared to its more sophisticated malt-based counterpart Scotch. But Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon unequivocally hits outside that range, highlighting what makes Frey Ranch unique. It’s awkward and funky, but it works really well. I really enjoy it, but not everyone will. For those that do, it’s a great value and unique bourbon that you won’t find anywhere else
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Frey Ranch Distillery
Distillery: Frey Ranch Distillery
Release Date: Ongoing
Proof: 124.3
Age: NAS (Batch age averages around 5 years per company)
Mashbill: 66.6% Dent Corn, 10% Winter Wheat, 11.4% Winter Rye, 12% Two-Row Malted Barley
Color: Dark Gold
MSRP: $80 (2023)
Orth by the 100% malted corn mashbill. The cask strength adds an intense heat to the palate, but it also brings out a rich and robust flavor profile that showcases the grains. The mouthfeel is thick and velvety, coating the tongue with a symphony of sweet and spicy notes.
Finish
The finish is long and warming, with a lingering heat and a touch of toasted oak. The sweetness of caramel and the spiciness of cinnamon blend together to create a satisfying conclusion. Despite the high alcohol content, it manages to maintain some balance, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Overall, Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon offers a unique and distinctive grain-forward take on straight bourbon. Its commitment to using 100% malted corn and bottling at cask strength showcases the distillery’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship. While it may not be the most refined or elegant bourbon, its boldness and intensity make it a standout option for those seeking a robust and unapologetic whiskey experience.
Orth by the malted corn mashbill. The high proof adds a fiery intensity that, while enjoyable for some, may overwhelm those seeking a more subtle experience. This bourbon is a bold and robust sip that demands attention.
Finish
The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of caramel and baking spices. The grain-forward character persists, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. It’s a powerful and complex finish that showcases the unique qualities of this Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon.
Overall, Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon offers a distinctive take on straight bourbon. Its use of 100% malted corn sets it apart, providing a grain-forward experience that is full of character. While the high proof and intense flavors may not appeal to everyone, those seeking a bold and unapologetic bourbon will find much to enjoy here. It’s an exciting addition to Frey Ranch’s lineup and a testament to their commitment to crafting exceptional spirits.
Orth by the malted corn mashbill. The high proof adds intensity and heat, with an underlying earthiness and a slight hint of vanilla. There’s a bold and robust character to the bourbon, making it a standout option for those who appreciate a grain-forward taste.
Finish
The finish is long and warm, with the spice and heat lingering on the palate. The grainy sweetness of the corn comes through once again, alongside hints of oak and vanilla. It’s a satisfying and memorable conclusion to the sip, leaving a lasting impression.
Overall, Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon offers a unique take on straight bourbon, showcasing the distinctive flavors and characteristics that come from using 100% malted corn. It may lack some nuance and balance, but it more than makes up for it with its boldness and intensity. If you’re a fan of grain-forward whiskies, this is definitely one to try.