King of Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon Review

The King of Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon offers a robust sensory experience, starting with a nose that is both immense and distinctively marked by Brown-Forman’s signature yeast. This yeast note brings forth a blend of fruity, candied, floral, and tropical aromas. You’ll also detect browned biscuits, cinnamon, dark chocolate reminiscent of Mexican hot chocolate, confectioner’s sugar, old oak, and licorice.

Ideal for Sharing: This bourbon is perfect for those who appreciate bold, high-proof, barrel-strength whiskeys.

Value for Money: Absolutely. Finding a 16-year-old whiskey of this caliber for $300 is a rare treat.

Purchase Recommendation: If you can find a bottle, buy it. It’s a true gem.

Overall Impressions:

When King of Kentucky was reintroduced six years ago, it initially came across as overly hot and difficult to drink, contradicting Brown-Forman’s preference for smooth, low-proof whiskeys. However, recent releases have transformed this bourbon into one of the most thrilling annual offerings. It truly reigns supreme, commanding every taste bud and olfactory neuron with its rich, complex flavors.

The nose is overwhelmingly rich, featuring Brown-Forman’s yeast notes alongside hints of browned biscuits, cinnamon, dark chocolate, confectioner’s sugar, old oak, and licorice. The palate is lively and warm, with a 125.8 proof that commands attention. Initial flavors of toasted oak give way to toffee and buttered cinnamon toast. A second sip reveals hard cherry and orange candies, accompanied by an amazingly honeyed texture that balances the heat. The finish is long, moderately hot, and exceptionally warming, with minimal tannins and abundant fruit for a whiskey of this age.

Brand Notes:

The 2023 King of Kentucky is a 16-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, with around 3,800 bottles produced, retailing at $299.99.

“We are excited to celebrate the sixth year of the King of Kentucky brand with an extremely robust selection of 16-year-old barrels,” said Brown-Forman Master Distiller Chris Morris. “This brand demonstrates Brown-Forman’s commitment to and expertise in the growing American Whiskey category.”

King of Kentucky is an annual single barrel release, each barrel offering a unique profile. For the 2023 edition, Morris selected barrels from a single lot aged since July 19, 2007, all stored in Warehouse G at the Brown-Forman Distillery.

“This year’s release of 51 barrels showcases the unique impact of each barrel on the color, flavor, and aroma of this exquisite whiskey,” Morris added.

Specifications:

Proof: 125.8
Age: 16 years
Aroma: Dark graham cracker, vanilla, charred oak, port, cognac, and milk chocolate-coated coconut.
Flavor: Dark chocolate mocha with hints of black tea and leathery tannins.

Disclaimer:

Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.