Cinder Smoke Oloroso Bourbon

Overview
Cinder Smoke Oloroso Bourbon emerges from The Bard Distillery, a relatively new player in the bourbon landscape, distinguished by its intriguing finishing process that utilizes Oloroso sherry casks. This unique aging imparts a distinctive flavor profile that stands apart from traditional bourbons.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
The Bard Distillery, founded by Thomas and Kim Bard, operates from a renovated school building in Graham, Kentucky. Thomas is a direct descendant of Bardstown's founder, adding historical depth to their craft. Their sourcing strategy reflects a commitment to quality as they await their own distillate to mature.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Expect caramel, hints of leather, and a whiff of rye spice, layered with baking spices and a surprising note of zucchini bread.
• Palate: The taste is dominated by baking spices and cinnamon, with an undercurrent of cherry and banana runts, reminiscent of grape soda and licorice.
• Finish: The finish brings forth fruit and spice, with a lingering presence of black pepper and molasses, though astringent notes of green wood can overshadow the sweetness.

Notable details

• Production: Kentucky Straight Bourbon, aged in sourced barrels; bottled at 100 proof, with raw tannins and a youthful character noted in reviews.
• Lineage: The Bard Distillery is known for its commitment to quality, with plans for in-house distillation as their own barrels age.
• Comparison: Often compared to younger sourced products that lack balance, such as My Old Kentucky Home bourbon.
• Availability: Limited distribution; priced around $100, raising questions about its value given the youth of the spirit.

Serving suggestions

• Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to temper the raw tannins.
• Pairs well with rich desserts or spiced dishes that can complement its baking spice notes.

“This flawed, thin bourbon is vastly overpriced at $100 for a roughly five-year-old sourced expression that tastes immature and unbalanced.” – Bourbon Culture

Closing
Cinder Smoke Oloroso Bourbon is an intriguing exploration into the intersection of bourbon and sherry, but it invites scrutiny over its youthful characteristics and pricing.

Sources
[1] Bourbon Culture – “Cinder & Smoke Founder’s Select Batch 3 Review”
[2] Capital City Bourbon – “Distillery Spotlight: The Bard Distillery and Cinder & Smoke 13-Year Bourbon”
[3] Breaking Bourbon – Press Release on Cinder & Smoke 17 Year Straight Bourbon