Old Elk Straight Bourbon Cognac Cask Finish arrives at 54.85% ABV; mash bill: 51% Corn, 34% Barley, and 1. Priced at $99.99 The color is a little lighter than the port cask finished offering in this series, and presen, we assessed it with care.
Nose
The color is a little lighter than the port cask finished offering in this series, and presents a little lighter on the color spectrum closer to a mix of medium brown and aged gold.
Palate
A pleasant candied sweetness, warmed apple, and the proof definitely presents in the ethanol vapors.
Finish
The base is Old Elks signature high-malt bourbon aged a minimum of five years in 72-gallon Limousin oak casks, and finished in world-class cognac casks for an additional 10 months; 109.7 Proof, 54.85% ABV; mash bill: 51% Corn, 34% Barley, and 15% Rye; 750ml; MSRP $99.99 Warm brown sugar, a mellow ribbon of stone fruit tending toward prune, rye spice and pepper. If you have tried Old Elks unique mash bill of high-malt bourbon and like it, what fun to be able to revisit the offering with two distinct cask finishes. I personally enjoyed the port finish a touch more than this cognac finish, but I recommend exploring both if you already have an affinity for Old Elks bourbon.
Verdict
Old Elk Straight Bourbon Cognac Cask Finish represents solid craftsmanship at $99.99 The color is a little lighter than the port cask finished offering in this series, and presen. While it may not redefine expectations, it offers genuine quality and reliable drinking pleasure.
