Green River Bourbon Single Barrel like many other brands are only a available via a program. According to the website, “Green River’s Single Barrel Program offers customers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. Our single barrels are distilled on site, presented at cask strength, and aged in our historic warehouses for at least five years. Visit Green River’s unique location, nestled in the historic river-front city of Owensboro, which provides a distinct and unforgettable experience.”
According to the bottle, “Founded by John W. McCulloch in 1885 as Kentucky’s oldest distillery, Green River was celebrated for quality and became known as “The Whiskey Without Regrets” before being lost to history after prohibition. Once again, Green River Whiskey is crafted at its original home. This Single Barrel expression showcases a unique, full-body flavor from our favorite rickhouse location.”
Thankfully my go to shop took part in this program and they got a bottle that is pretty high in proof which is right in my wheelhouse.
Bourbon Review: Green River Single Barrel
ABV: 62% (124 Proof)
Age: NAS
Mash Bill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley
Distillery: Green River Distilling Company
Location: Owensboro, KY (USA)
The Nose: Usually I opt for a glencairn glass but I got these awesome glasses from Kori Whiskey (use coupon code BARRY20 to save 20%) which really shows off the color of the bourbon. But anyway I digress. The aroma serves up notes of caramelized sugar ala creme brulee, black cherries, toasted oak and of black pepper. After we let the glass sit for a bit there are additional notes of honeydew melon and an abundance of toffee.
The Taste: Apple juice thickened by flour ala warm apple to start things off. Supplemental notes include warm chocolate, toffee and butterscotch. Saldy the apple which was so vibrant on the first sip was almost non existent by the third sip. However, the butterscotch notes intensified with additional sips.
The Finish: A lingering caramel sweetness with nuances of toasted oak, licorice and caraway seeds encapsulate the palate. As an afterthought there is a subtle dill present as well.
Conclusion: From the beginning with its extremely complex nose to the rich robust flavors this is bourbon that hits on all aspects. Green River has become one of my favorite pours on the market. We never discuss the bottles, but I love the flat front which makes the label easy to see and read on the shelf. For those you who worry about the 124 proof, it is very manageable and only serves as an afterthought and if you can control your intake it’s not a concern. While it scores a little lower than the Green River Full Proof the Single Barrel is not to be missed.
Score: 93
Price: $59.99 (750ml)
