I've Sampled Countless Whiskies. This Budget-Friendly Bourbon Stands Out as a Winning Bet

While some distilleries promote experimental releases, the extent to which these spirits can be considered truly experimental varies widely. This is particularly evident at craft distilleries. Chattanooga Whiskey For instance, this collection boasts an extensive range of experimental releases that truly seem to fit the criteria. The whiskies are crafted using various mash bills, matured in differing barrel types, and feature infusions that deviate significantly from conventional methods.

Next, some distilleries assert that a fresh batch was produced due to an unexpected twist of fate. However, it’s wise to approach these claims cautiously since beverage companies tightly manage their supplies of both newly distilled and aged whiskies.

Occasionally, though, both elements may stem from actual occurrences. This could certainly apply to the recently launched Remus Bourbon Master Distiller Experimental Series, which marks the inaugural offering in a fresh lineup crafted at Indiana’s MGP distillery. As stated by MGP, this experimental range aims to investigate how various grains, mash bills, and aging techniques influence bourbon. Interestingly, the initial bottling emerged as an unexpected discovery during production.

In 2015, certain whiskeys produced at Ross & Squibb—which operates as an internal division within MGP—were placed inside barrels made by Seguin Moreau that had been only slightly charred but deeply toasted. These barrels also featured staves that underwent seasoning for twenty-four months. This contrasts with the typical barrel selection utilized by MGP, which consists of staves marked with a char level four combined with head sections showing a char level two. Seguin Moreau stands as a renowned cooperage company maintaining facilities across Napa, Bordeaux, and Cognac; they specialize in crafting oak containers designed specifically for aging both wines and cognacs. Master Distiller Ian Stirsman disclosed that this particular batch of bourbon matured fully over a period of nine years exclusively using these custom barrels, thus not constituting merely a finishing phase.

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They weren’t wine barrels," Stirsman explained. "The incident occurred because when we bought the barrels, they were meant to be identical to our usual barrels.

This particular whiskey stands out compared to others from MGP. Bottled at 107 proof, the bourbon delivers a pleasant warmth right from the start of every sip. On the palate, you'll find intense flavors dominated by dark fruits, caramel, red berries, spiced apples, leather, and various nuances of oak. Adding just a touch of water enhances this experience further, toning down its upfront boldness and introducing richer depth along with additional hints of citrus and vanilla.

The Experimental Series represents our fresh creative space, merging traditional roots with daring invention," stated Stirson. "We aim to contribute an engaging narrative to the extensive chronicle of Remus Bourbon. I am eager to present novel experiences for bourbon enthusiasts each year.

I would argue that he has achieved these objectives since this fresh whiskey genuinely provides a distinct offering compared to the range of bourbons and ryes included in the Ross & Squibb collection. The newly released Remus Bourbon Master Distiller Experimental Series is currently accessible in certain areas across the nation for $80 per bottle.

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