Yellowstone 2019 Limited Edition
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
50.5% ABV
$100
Website
We would like to thank Limestone Branch and Common Ground PR for sending us samples to review.
What the Producer Says
Limestone Branch Distillery introduces the 2019 variety of Yellowstone® Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon, set to hit the market in August. This year’s edition includes a hand-picked selection of the most unique barrels – those hidden gems in the rick house – including barrels of extra-aged nine-year and 12-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
“I tasted many quality, mature Kentucky Straight Bourbons in order to find the right two ages for this year’s release – I had a certain taste profile in mind and I sought those barrels that matched it,” says Steve Beam, head distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery. “The barrels I chose were in different parts of the rick house and each barrel’s unique location contributed to the taste profile and complexity of this bourbon. When combined, these extra-aged bourbons create a mature and complex bourbon with robust spice and oaky undertones.”
Yellowstone has been one of Kentucky’s favorites since 1872. This year’s edition brings cinnamon notes with toffee, dried fruit and a hint of citrus to the palate, followed by a dry finish of brown sugar and oak. Using Beam’s expertise and honed palate, only the finest barrels were chosen for this year’s release.
Bottled at 101 proof and available in 750ml bottles nestled in commemorative tubes, the 2019 Yellowstone Limited Edition continues to honor the long-standing tradition. Approximately 12,500 bottles of this bourbon are being produced at Limestone Branch Distillery, and the suggested retail price is $99.99.
What Gary Says
Nose: Lovely caramel, oak, vanilla wafers, cinnamon, allspice, and toasted orange zest.
Palate: Rich caramel and vanilla buttercream frosting, oak with a spicy bite of clove and citrus spice mid-way through the palate before bringing out some milk chocolate.
Finish: Moderately long, drying with some pepper spice and cinnamon.
Comments: This is a solid bourbon with a spicy edge to it. Some might call it ‘brash’ (which to me isn’t a bad thing; Stagg is ‘brash’ and I’d never turn down a pour of it!). I don’t think it is too sharp or spicy, and it has those sweet notes you’d expect in a bourbon. If you’re a fan of ‘sweet & mellow’ bourbon, this might be outside your comfort zone. For those that like a spicier pour (like Wild Turkey or Old Forester), this is likely right up your alley. A bit of water doesn’t hurt it, but I didn’t find it needed it either.