Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey balances tradition and innovation

Whiskey and bourbon drinkers are always looking to appreciate a new distillation, innovation, or formulation. While history and tradition will always infuse the amber colored liquor in the bottle, drinkers often want more. When the story matches the flavor, the bottle gets prime space on the bar shelf. With the Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the distillers have captured that concept.

Many people know Green River. While the brand’s signature bottle gets many people shooting coins into the slot at the table, the “Whiskey Without Regrets” might have a storied history but it is far from stuck in the past.

Over recent years, the liquor brand has offered various distillations and proofs. Drinkers enjoy a pour neat or shaken in a cocktail. It is approachable both in flavor and price point.

Speaking to the newest offering, Caryn Wells, National Brand Ambassador for Green River Distilling Co said, “Green River 1885 was blended with classic cocktails in mind, and is the ideal combination of flavor and value. Like all Green River products, we honor our history while presenting bourbons that are relevant to what and how people drink today. It’s awfully easy to say on your next cocktail order, ‘make mine an ’85.”

The bourbon whiskey’s versatility is noticeable from the aroma. The bright orange peel with a hint of sweetness blends well with an almond note. It is enticing and even a touch familiar.

From there, warmth of clove and a spiced oak feels inviting. With a sweet vanilla, a little Honeycrisp apple finish, and some caramel baking spices, it feels like a warm hug that lingers in the best possible way.

While this liquor is lovely served over a single cube, it is even more enjoyable in a cocktail. In some ways, it is a good idea to either play up the apple and spices or lean into the orange citrus. From a play on an Old Fashioned to even a twist on a Sidecar, the cocktail variations are many.

Additionally, it would be fun to play with a tea infusion and this bourbon whiskey. Many of the flavors would blend well with teas.

Lastly, with a bottle priced at $21.99, it is a steal. There is no excuse to not have a bottle always on the shelf.

The Green River 1885 will have a limited release. Check with the brand’s website for distribution and availability.