We turn our attention to Wilderness Trail Distillery Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottled at 55% ABV and bottled at 50% ABV. It enters a competitive field.
Nose
Amber in color with a little bit of straw yellow where it thins out. This has very slow long legs. This bourbon is certainly something to sit with. Its got a little heat up front to remind you of its alcohol content, but never gets overwhelming. I get flavors of brown sugar, butter, and bread up front. This transitions to a rich mid note that tastes of alcohol, in a good way. There is just a hint of banana flavor that is more in line with that banana flavored candy than what was on the nose. This all finishes with a dry long finish of toasted oak, vanilla, and a bit of black pepper spice. The addition of water to this upped the sweetness and spice but made a lot of the individual flavors disappear. For me this is much more interesting out of the bottle than when diluted.
Palate
The smell is both of ripe fresh banana and caramelized banana. Little hint of vanilla and spices including black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This is a good bourbon that I would recommend to anyone that doesn’t mind a bit higher proof and is looking for that touch of sweetness. The higher ABV allows it to hold up nicely in a cocktail as well and really brings its spice to the drink.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
Verdict
Wilderness Trail Distillery Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
