Experience the bold and refined essence of Three Keys Small Batch Cask Strength Kentucky Bourbon, a four-year-aged masterpiece crafted with a premium mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley. At a robust 58.4% ABV, this award-winning bourbon, rated 93 at the 2023 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, offers a symphony of rich flavors and aromas. Delight in the inviting notes of graham cracker, golden raisins, and zesty orange peel, layered with the warmth of toasted vanilla bean. The smooth, velvety texture reveals a balance of spiced sweetness and bright citrus, culminating in a remarkably smooth finish that defies its cask strength. Perfect for sipping neat or elevating your favorite cocktail, this Kentucky treasure encapsulates the artisanal spirit and heritage of the Bluegrass State.
Process & Profile
Three Keys Small Batch Cask Strength Bourbon is produced using a traditional mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and depth. Aged for four years in charred American oak barrels, the process honors Kentucky's bourbon-making heritage while embracing modern precision. Bottled at an impressive 116 proof (58.4% ABV), it offers a bold yet exceptionally smooth drinking experience, showcasing its cask strength character without compromise.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: A warm, amber hue that glows enticingly in the glass.
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Nose: Inviting aromas of freshly baked graham crackers intermingle with zesty orange peel, golden raisins, and a comforting essence of toasted vanilla bean.
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Palate: Complex layers unfold, starting with spiced graham crackers and a burst of vibrant orange zest. Golden raisins add a touch of sweetness, while toasted vanilla provides a warm, rich finish.
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Finish: Remarkably smooth for its high proof, the bourbon leaves a satisfying and balanced impression, with hints of spearmint lingering on the palate.
What Makes It Special
Three Keys Distillery is deeply rooted in Kentucky tradition, operating on a historic property enriched with local heritage. What sets the Small Batch Cask Strength Bourbon apart is its careful sourcing of locally-grown ingredients and its dedication to small-batch production, ensuring quality and authenticity. Its prestigious 93-point rating at the 2023 Ultimate Spirits Challenge underscores this bourbon's excellence, highlighting its impressive craftsmanship and flavor complexity.
How to Enjoy
This bourbon is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up its rich bouquet and flavor complexity. Its bold yet smooth profile also makes it a fantastic choice for classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. For aficionados, savoring it as a post-meal drink pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate or a fine cigar.
Conclusion
The Three Keys Small Batch Cask Strength Kentucky Bourbon 4 Year is a celebration of Kentucky's bourbon-making legacy. With its refined craftsmanship, bold flavor profile, and remarkable smoothness, it's an essential addition to your whiskey collection—perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift for any bourbon lover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proof and alcohol content of this bourbon?
This bourbon boasts a robust 116 proof, equivalent to 58% alcohol by volume (ABV), providing a high-strength and flavorful experience.
What is the mash bill composition?
The mash bill includes 70% Kentucky corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, highlighting a balanced blend of sweetness from the corn, spice from the rye, and malty richness.
How is this bourbon aged?
The bourbon is aged for four years in newly charred American oak barrels, allowing it to develop depth, complexity, and a smooth finish.
What are the prominent tasting notes?
On the nose, you’ll find rich aromas of graham crackers, zesty orange peel, golden raisins, and toasted vanilla bean. The palate features layers of spiced sweetness, bright orange zest, and velvety textures, with a smooth and satisfying finish.
What makes cask-strength bourbon unique?
Cask-strength bourbon is bottled directly from the barrel without dilution, preserving its natural flavors and high proof. This allows drinkers to enjoy the bourbon's full intensity or customize it by adding water to taste.
Can this bourbon be enjoyed neat or in cocktails?
Yes, this bourbon is versatile. It is ideal for sipping neat to appreciate its full complexity or as a bold addition to classic bourbon cocktails.
Is Three Keys Bourbon considered a craft product?
Yes, it is a small-batch, artisanal bourbon made with traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing quality and authenticity.
What awards has this bourbon won?
Three Keys Small Batch Cask Strength Kentucky Bourbon earned an impressive 93 rating in the 2023 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, recognizing its exceptional quality.
Where is this bourbon produced?
It is crafted in Kentucky, staying true to the rich heritage and tradition of the region's bourbon-making.
Does this bourbon have a smooth finish despite its high proof?
Yes, despite being 116 proof, it offers a remarkably smooth finish, making it approachable for both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers.
Are there any shipping restrictions?
This bourbon can be shipped across most of the United States, but it cannot be delivered to PO boxes, Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts, South Dakota, Tennessee, or Utah. An adult signature (21+) is required upon delivery.
How much does it cost?
This premium bourbon is priced at approximately $78 per bottle. Free shipping is available on orders of two bottles or more.