We turn our attention to Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon bottled at 45% ABV. It enters a competitive field.
Nose
Theres an almost humid quality to the nose. Its floral and sticky, with the feel of pollen. Underneath that, I can find hints of wood shavings and freshly ground coffee.
Finish
The flavor is light, smooth, and sweet with a strong taste of apple. Alongside the spiciness of the rye, it has the overall quality of an apple coffee cake. The apple profile is so clear that it almost feels like an apple liqueur, but it still has the body of a bourbon and no cloying sweetness. The grain is more present in the finish, which leaves a trail of apple flavored cereal and slightly astringent rye.
Verdict
Green River Kentucky Straight Bourbon represents solid craftsmanship. While it may not redefine expectations, it offers genuine quality and reliable drinking pleasure.