Green River "Owensboro's Aqueous Ore" K&L Exclusive Cask Strength Non-Chillfiltered Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

The two barrels we have from Green River right now may change some skeptics' minds. There's an unfortunate negativity in the bourbon industry that exists with regards to Owensboro production, one stemming from some of the previous owners' early experimental efforts to accelerate the aging of the bourbons produced at this facility through somewhat questionable means, but the current production is perfectly lovely and certain barrels are downright exceptional. This 6.5 year old barrel of cask strength bourbon comes from the classic Green River mashbill at 21 percent rye and is simply delicious. A splendid chestnut color (1.2). The nose begins dark and nutty, but with just a bit of air it's clear there's a huge amount going on here. Sweet, almost molasses-like dense fruit, chocolate chip banana nut bread, cedar, sandalwood, toasted pecans, baking spices. It's very festive. On the palate it reminds me of OESQ from Four Roses with the candied floral and soft vanilla character right up front, honeysuckle, sweet tea, caramel candied, followed by a dark spicy finish. It's a totally fabulous and unique expression that kind of does different things on nose and palate and continues to evolve for ages in the glass.