Kentucky Owl Mardi Gras XO Cask 11-Year Old Rye at 51.4% abv) — at $500. Colors of rich golden brown and burnt amber, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
Colors of rich golden brown and burnt amber. Aromas of candied orange and molasses mingle with notes of vanilla and caramel.
Palate
Flavors of toffee and cooking spices at first and then rich dark chocolates and orange peel. Finish: Whiskey coats the palate nicely and allows for a long, lingering finish of barrel and baking spices. Whiskey coats the palate nicely and allows for a long, lingering finish of barrel and baking spices.
Finish
11-year old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey finished for one year in rum casks. 102.8 proof (51.4% abv). 750ml, SRP $500. A very nice collaboration. This whiskey displays both characteristics of the rye whiskey and the rum while not having them overpower one another. Priced a little above the competition, but still a worthy addition to an already stacked lineup from Kentucky Owl.
The Bottom Line
Kentucky Owl Mardi Gras XO Cask 11-Year Old Rye delivers the goods. It is well-made, genuinely enjoyable, and at $500. Colors of rich golden brown and burnt amber represents solid value for what you are getting. I would happily buy this again.
