Old Elk is probably my favorite of the large brand distilleries. It’s available, it’s transparent about the contents of the bottle, and it always seems to deliver. Some of their offerings are pricey, but for me you are paying for consistency. Or maybe it’s because the mascot is a giant horned mammal…
This is a five year old bourbon matured for some time in port casks and bottle at 108 proof (54 abv). This pour is a nice amber a bit on the darker side. Not particularly viscous upon a good glass swirling. On the nose a pleasant funk leads the lead. It’s a bit musty, but underneath there is definitely a sweet note to be found. I assume this is the port influence because it’s in the realm of stonefruit. Much like the nose the funk takes charge. It commands your attention quite a palate shock if weren’t prepared. After the initial jolt I get a bit of the port in the mid palate, but the sour bite remains past the slight sweet reprieve. There is little to no alcohol burn whatsoever (or perhaps my taste buds are too scorched to sense it). After the shock though, it falls a bit flat.
What purpose does this whiskey serve in my bar? It is absolutely a palate puncher that I would never start the evening with or be able to down all night. The purpose this serves is a strong mix up pour that can wake you palate up. This pour would pair nicely with a cigar or medium red meat.