Howdy! And welcome to my latest whiskey review, where I dive into the rich heritage and remarkable resurgence of Green River Distilling. Their story is steeped in history, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to quality. The saga of Green River began back in 1885 in Owensboro, Kentucky with the distillery quickly establishing itself as a key player in the bourbon landscape.
Despite facing tumultuous times during Prohibition, the distillery cleverly adapted, producing “medicinal whiskey” to navigate through the restrictions of the era. The repeal of Prohibition in 1933 marked a triumphant return to form for Green River, as the distillery resumed crafting its beloved bourbons, gaining a reputation for a smooth and flavorful profile that whiskey enthusiasts cherished.
However, the journey wasn’t without its hurdles. After a decline in the 1970s that led to its closure, the Green River brand was resurrected in the 2010s by a passionate group of investors dedicated to honoring its legacy. They built a state-of-the-art facility and introduced a new line of premium bourbons (and a rye), all while adhering to traditional distillation methods and sustainable practices.
Today, Green River Full Proof Bourbon stands as a testament to the distillery’s storied past and its promising future. Join me as we explore what makes this bourbon a worthy addition to any whiskey lover's collection, from its flavor profile to the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
🥃 118.1 Proof
🥃 No Age Statement (NAS) but a blend of 5-7 year old bourbons according to the distillery
🥃 Mash Bill: 70% Kentucky grown corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley
🥃 750 ml bottle purchased at my local Total Wine for $48
🥃 Tasted in my Bourbon Real Talk High-Proof Tasting Nosing Glass
In the world of bourbon, the quest for a bottle that marries tradition, complexity, and affordability can seem endless. Yet, Green River Full Proof Bourbon emerges as a strong contender, skillfully highlighting the craft of pot still distillation with its bold character and friendly price. It is crafted from a small batch of carefully chosen barrels, expertly blended and bottled at barrel strength.
Nose
After pouring a glass and letting it sit for about 20 minutes, the aroma begins to unfold in delightful layers. The first wave offers a comforting blend of caramel and vanilla, timeless notes that anchor any quality bourbon. Exploring deeper, subtle hints of oak surface, enriching the whiskey's depth. An unexpected twist appears with notes of Red Hots candy and cherries, introducing a playful sweetness that remains just shy of overpowering. A gentle hint of dill rounds out the aromatic experience, hinting at the complexity that lies ahead.
Palate
The initial sip is a delightful journey, where flavors of caramel popcorn evoke fond memories of movie nights. Maraschino cherries appear, beautifully complementing the sweetness. The palate then surprises with a refreshing hint of mint, which contrasts the sweeter elements with a lively zest. As the experience evolves, spices take center stage, with cinnamon and a touch of black pepper adding warmth and a gentle kick. This harmonious blend of flavors is both satisfying and intriguing, inviting sip after sip.
Finish
The peppery finish lingers gracefully for about a minute, leaving a sophisticated dry oak essence that feels both grounding and refined. Just as it seems to fade, a surprising burst of dill emerges, providing a lasting impression that invites reflection and appreciation.
Green River Full Proof Bourbon is an impressive high-proof whiskey that captures the essence of traditional pot still distillation. Its balanced flavor profile and thoughtful complexity make it not only enjoyable but also a fantastic value for the quality it offers. I'm eager to see how this bourbon fits into both relaxed sipping and more curated tasting occasions. For those who seek a bourbon that harmonizes tradition with depth without straining the wallet, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring Green River Full Proof and give it 4.2 out of 5 ⭐s!
Cheers!🥃
Comments