Redwood Empire Pipe Dream Cask Strength Bourbon 2023 bottled at 58.4% ABV) — a $70 expression that merits close attention.
Palate
Warm caramel with coffee grinds coat the tongue, while subtle fruit of black figs roll over orange marmalade. The finish is a bit medicinal but is bracketed with soft butterscotch.
Finish
A solid bourbon that does what a bourbon should and I would by no means turn down a glass of it. However, for the cask strength expression, I was expecting a bit more umph and richness of classic bourbon flavors, or at least something to set it apart from others. If youre a Redwood Empire fan, this bottle would do just fine, but it is not the tallest tree in the forest.
Verdict
Redwood Empire Pipe Dream Cask Strength Bourbon 2023 represents solid craftsmanship at $70. While it may not redefine expectations, it offers genuine quality and reliable drinking pleasure.
