For some whiskey drinkers, opening a special reserve can feel like a religious moment. The heralding trumpets do not have to break the silence, but there is a moment of pageantry that accompanies the first pour. With its first offering in the Distillery Reserve series, Bardstown Bourbon releases Cathedral French Oak Barrel Finish. Even those who do not genuflect at the altar of whiskey greatest will appreciate the craft and storytelling in this special offering.
Bardstown Bourbon has been making wave in the industry. While other brands might have stories history or tout unique multi-grain blends, this brand has focused in innovation and collaboration blending with a foundation in the historical craft. From partnerships with Goose Island to bringing modernity to the Bourbon Trail, it has become a distillery to push the spirits conversation forward.
With the special Cathedral French Oak release, the story behind the creation flavors the overall drinking experience. Using the same French Oak that was part of Notre Dame Cathedral’s reconstruction, the whiskey is a celebration in complexity and uniqueness. Who else can say that their golden spirit’s flavor was enhanced by the 300-year-old French Oak from the legendary Bercé Forest in the Loire Valley. While that French Oak is a vital part to the flavor foundation, it is also a connection between cultures.
As Dan Callaway, head of new product development for Bardstown Bourbon Co explained, “These truly singular barrels brought tremendous character to the bourbon. The key was to integrate the commanding barrel flavor with a powerful blend of long-aged bourbons to achieve the balance that lets each part shine. This exquisite whiskey is a most devout showcase of the cultural legacy of France married to the pioneering spirit of American Whiskey.”
Although enjoying a glass basked in the kaleidoscope light of church stained glass would be nice, this bottle should not collect dust waiting for the perfect moment to be opened. Any and every time that this whiskey is enjoyed should be savored.
At first blush, the combination of creamy, burnt sugar sweetness with the toasted oak welcomes with a contrast of familiar and intriguing. The taste invites a moment to contemplate. It is not necessarily an earth shattering epiphany, but its complexity deserves its time to shine.
The notes of baked cherry and cinnamon offer a complexity that feels joyful and exciting. The warm spice gives way to the playfulness of the cherry. With maple and vanilla, the dessert like reference feels almost like a well earned treat after a long day.
While there is a hint of floral, that note sometimes feels elusive, similar to how the light hits just right through stained glass planes for a mere moment. There is a slight uncertainty if it should linger or whisk itself away with just a whisper.
As the first offering in the Distillery Reserve series, the Cathedral French Oak sets a high bar. Where Will Bardstown venture next? Maybe a bucolic Irish farm has a secret to share.
Bardstown Bourbon's Distillery Reserve Cathedral French Oak is available at the distillery’s gift shops in Bardstown and Louisville. The price is $99.99 a bottle,