Emma Jones
Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 Review
Nose
Aged leather | Smoked oak chips | Butterbeer | Touch of caramel | Light brown sugar | White peppercorn | Pleasing opening
Palate
Rye Spice | Dry aged oak | Peppercorn spice mix | Caramel sweetness | Light brown sugar | Good mix of spicy & sweet | Classic bourbon notes
Finish
Bold spice | Light leather | Touch of brown sugar | Light whipped cream | Lingering light heat
Overall
Even though it carries an exorbitant price tag, it’s hard to deny that Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 delivers a quintessential classic sip that won’t disappoint those who pay its asking price. In 2014, Kentucky Owl started releasing their bourbon batch blends which were originally brought to market by Dixon Dedman. The brand was acquired by the Stoli Group in 2017, and Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 is the latest batch by Master Blender John Rhea. According to the press release, Rhea blended 7- to 14-year-old bourbons with two different 4-year-old bourbons to create Batch #12.
Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 is a quintessential bourbon through and through. The sip kicks off with a great combination of scents that balances sweetness with more grounded aromas that draw you in. The midpoint contains classic well-defined flavors that are nicely enhanced by the bourbon’s higher proof, but never feel overpowering. While the finish doesn’t quite live up to the nose and palate, it still delivers a satisfying ending to the sip.
Past batches of Kentucky Owl bourbon have carried high price tags, and Batch #12 continues that trend. There’s no denying that $400 is incredibly high for a blended bourbon that doesn’t disclose the mashbill or blend percentages of the bourbons being used, which is even more noteworthy as there is an undisclosed amount of 4-year-old bourbon in the blend. However, looking past the exorbitant asking price, Kentucky Owl Batch #12 delivers where it counts: its taste, and will please most who try it.
The bottle being reviewed was bottled on 08/22.
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Stoli Group
Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery(ies)
Release Date: November 2022
Proof: 115.8
Age: NAS (Company states blend of 4 and 7-14 year old bourbons)
Mashbill: Undisclosed
Color: Copper
MSRP: $400 (2023)
“>…The Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 is a delicious bourbon that combines spicy and sweet notes with a smooth finish. The high price may deter some, but for true bourbon enthusiasts, it is worth every penny. Master Blender John Rhea has created a winning batch that will not disappoint.
“The Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 is a must-try for fans of classic bourbon. Master Blender John Rhea has crafted a blend that delivers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, with a smooth finish. Despite its high price, this batch is worth every penny for true bourbon enthusiasts.”
This review highlights the impressive blend of flavors in Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 and acknowledges its high price point. It also provides interesting background information about the brand and its evolution.
Commented on Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 Review
This review highlights the delicious and classic flavors of Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12, but also mentions its high price tag. It’s interesting to hear that the brand has changed hands and now has a different master blender, but it’s reassuring to hear that the blend is still top-notch. I would be interested in trying this bourbon myself, although the price may be a deterrent.
“Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch #12 is a masterfully blended bourbon that delivers a classic sip with a perfect balance of spicy and sweet notes. Despite its high price, it is worth trying for any bourbon lover. The brand’s acquisition by the Stoli Group adds a new chapter to its story, making it a must-try for whiskey enthusiasts.”