Prepare to be enthralled by the allure of Kentucky Owl Confiscated, an exceptional spirit that has finally made its way to the shores of Australia. This remarkable bourbon pays homage to a storied legacy of whiskey craftsmanship, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
The legacy of Kentucky Owl dates back to 1879 when C.M. Dedman founded the distillery on the serene banks of the Kentucky River. For decades, they crafted "The Wise Man’s Bourbon," garnering admiration and a loyal following. However, the dark cloud of Prohibition descended, interrupting its illustrious history. Barrels of this liquid gold were seized and vanished into obscurity.
Fortunately, in 2014, the brand was resurrected, breathing new life into the tradition of excellence and innovation in the world of bourbon. Now, it arrives in Australia, carrying with it a heritage steeped in whiskey craftsmanship.
Master Blender Extraordinaire
At the heart of this exceptional little number lies the renowned Hall of Fame Master Blender, John Rhea. Celebrated for his unparalleled expertise and boasting a distinguished 40-year career adorned with countless accolades, Rhea graciously emerged from retirement to infuse his vast knowledge and experience into the crafting of Kentucky Owl Confiscated. This extraordinary bourbon is a testament to the unwavering dedication to the art of bourbon craftsmanship.
As John Rhea, the distinguished Master Blender behind this unique creation, aptly puts it, "Kentucky Owl Confiscated stands as a testament to the dedication and artistry that goes into every drop of bourbon. Crafted from four different distillates, aged 12, 10, 9, and 5 years, this full-flavored and fuller-bodied bourbon promises an exceptional experience for whiskey enthusiasts seeking the finest."
A Symphony of Complexity
Clocking in at an ABV of 48.2%, Kentucky Owl Confiscated exudes elegance with its complex yet balanced profile: Upon approach, the nostrils are tickled by hints of aged oak as they intertwine with delicate caramel and leather, a prelude to the layers of complexity awaiting your palate. It's an elegant and well-balanced journey with notes of orange peel, burnt caramel, leather, and oak. Hints of peach, mature oak, earthy vanilla, and tobacco give way to sweeter vanilla and warming aromas of cardamom and baking spice.
A Memorable Finish
The flavours remain delicate, leaning toward the savoury side of the scale, counterpoised by vanilla custard, caramel, a hint of citrus, and prominent yet gentle oak with mild spice create a delightful medley. The finish, slightly bitter at first, evolves into a dry leather note, followed by the satisfying pop of cinnamon spice. Aged oak has the final word, leaving a lasting impression.
What we love about Kentucky Owl’s Confiscated expression is that its flavour profile suggests a higher age than expected, with oak-forward characteristics that add depth and dimension. The bourbon's complexity and the standout finish make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking an exceptional sipping experience.
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Words by AW.
Photo courtesy of Kentucky Owl.