Emma Jones
Raising a Glass to the Monarch of Mash – King of Kentucky Bourbon
Ah, whiskey-to-new-heights/” title=”Bulleit's 12-Year-Old Rye Takes Whiskey to New Heights”>bourbon enthusiasts and curious sippers alike, gather ’round! We’re about to delve into the grand tale of a potion so potent, so palatable, it’s been dubbed the King of Kentucky Bourbon. With its regal roots and richness, this spirited sovereign has made merry the hearts of many a whiskey lover. So, what’s the hubbub about this bourbon royalty, you ask? Let us embark on a journey through flavor kingdoms and the oak-laden landscapes of this storied spirit.
Whiffs of Majesty – The Nose Knows
In the bourbon universe, the nose is much like the front door to a grand castle – it sets the expectations. Your olfactory senses are royally treated to a parade of aged charred oak and dried tobacco leaf, greeting you with the finesse of a dignified butler. Then comes the rye spice, infused with leather and caramel, and delicate whispers of baking spices and dried raisins. This wondrous blend of scents strikes a balance between the maturity of well-aged notes and the youthful vigor of spice, crafting a harmonious aroma fit for a monarch.
Palatial Pleasures – The Taste Test
But what is a nose without a king’s feast to follow? Fear not! The King of Kentucky Bourbon doesn’t skimp on the palate pleasantries. Imagine, if you will, a tapestry woven from baking spices and that same confident rye spice, now draped over burnt caramel. Layers of mixed spiced dry dark fruits flirt with cinnamon spice and that impactful signature of aged oak. Leading the charge is a thick mouthfeel that stands with the sturdiness of castle walls, holding the bold flavors within.
The Royal Goodbye – The Finish
Every glorious sip must, alas, come to an end, and our King of Kentucky Bourbon parts ways with a dry flavor profile that’s as intricate as the plot of a Shakespearean play. Envision dry oak, leather, and the dignified essence of a cigar box concluding this liquid sonnet. The rye spice makes its encore alongside light cinnamon spice, creating a bold lingering heat that sticks around like a favorite anecdote told at court, while overtly dry sensations dance across the tongue in a final, dramatic bow.
The Rare Jewel – Annual Limited Release
Commemorating its 5th anniversary, our noble sip has solidified its stance as one of the bourbon world’s most awaited Annual Limited Releases. The increasing bottle count each year reflects its ascending popularity, a testament to the subject of our review.
With every annual decree, the kingdom witnesses an increase in treasure – from the barrels, my lords and ladies! This year has seen a rise to 3,500 bottles, the most magnificent bounty yet. For those with a penchant for exclusivity, an ultra-limited 18-year variant is available too, gracing just 250 fortunate souls. Sourced from venerable barrels from 2004 and 2006, this bourbon’s lineage is as impressive as a royal family tree.
Compared to the Throne of Yesteryear
Our 2022 sovereign has leaned, albeit with poise, towards drier dominions, especially noted in its parting flavors. One must acknowledge the opening scents of well-balanced maturity that beckon the nose to languish longer. The seasoned characteristics effortlessly waltz with rich spice and dalliances of sweetness, creating a complex tableau on the palate – a flavor tapestry that’s as intricate as the court’s best silks.
Yet in the realm of perfection, one small misstep may be noted in the finish. Bold spice and assertive heat display the proof of power, but it is in the swathes of dry flavors where the King stumbles slightly. It’s not quite off with its head, but rather, a royal toe stepped in the grand dance of greatness.
All Hail the King
After five years of unwavering quality, the King of Kentucky Bourbon reigns with the might of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and other coveted fall limited editions. It beckons bourbon lovers across the land to anticipate its arrival with bated breath, golden goblets at the ready. Its regal representative, barrel #14, showcases a profile fit for a king – full of captivating complexity, a richness to savor, and a character that holds court with the finest.
So, lift your glass in homage to a spirit that’s proved its royal mettle. To the King of Kentucky Bourbon, may its reign carry on with the same splendor, inspiring tales of flavor in its dominion for seasons to come.
Toast to the taste of royalty, my friends – for in each bottle lies the heart of a kingdom!
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Brown-Forman
Distillery: Brown-Forman Distillery
Release Date: August 2022
Proof: 130.6
Age: 15 Years
Mashbill: 79% Corn, 11% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Color: Mahogany
MSRP: $250 (2022)
I absolutely loved this article about the King of Kentucky Bourbon, it truly captures the Majesty in a Glass and made me want to raise a toast to this outstanding Kentucky whiskey!
The way the article described the history and craftsmanship of the King of Kentucky Bourbon was truly captivating, and it left me feeling a newfound appreciation for the art of whiskey-making.