Yellowstone Bourbon Finished With Toasted Staves bottled at 100 proof — a $49.99 expression that merits close attention.
Nose
Some warm colors in glass, including a very typical golden amber reflecting a slightly younger bourbon. Nice lines inside reflect good viscosity.
Palate
Orange, vanilla, candy corn, brown sugar and warm, slightly melted butter dance out of the glass into my nostrils. The whole smell is very ethereal and light, like floating somewhat on a cloud.
Finish
Aged four years and finished in barrel with the addition of a combination of five different toasted staves; 100 proof; priced at $49.99 per 750 ml. Oak, spice, caramel, buttered popcorn, green apple and peppercorn zing around my mouth, with only some vanilla milling around the edges. The finish is a quick pop and then fades pretty fast, not completely wowing or disappointing me it is just kind of there, much like this bourbon in general. I’m neither disappointed or overly blown away by the Yellowstone Bourbon Finished With Toasted Staves. It’s got a well rounded flavor profile and I appreciate the stave finishing, but it just doesn’t stand out for me too much in the greater bourbon pack otherwise.
Verdict
Yellowstone Bourbon Finished With Toasted Staves represents solid craftsmanship at $49.99. While it may not redefine expectations, it offers genuine quality and reliable drinking pleasure.