We have long been fans of what Rick and Ricky Johnson are doing over at 15 Stars Bourbon. They have always focused on rich, exciting flavors and their blending is second to none. There has never been a release that we have tasted where we weren't instant fans. So, when we found out that they were releasing a new label - First West - that included some of their own distillate in the blend, we jumped at the opportunity to give this some attention.
This is the First West Toasted Oak Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a blend of 5, 6, and 7 year old bourbons, which is really impressive for a first-release label. The Johnsons have included some of their bourbon that they personally crafted from their proprietary red, white and blue corns, making this, at least for us, a much-anticipated and welcome new phase of their business.
We were immediately impressed by the packaging of this bourbon. The initial releases in the First West series also include a Small Batch Bourbon and and Extra Aged Bourbon, all bottled in historic-era (recycled) blue glass, creating a more authentic approach to the Old West and the early days of distilled spirits.
This bourbon was a lot of fun to try and figure out. It kept evolving with more air time in the glass. Initially we discovered stone fruits, peppercorn, and banana bread, eventually leading to vanillas bean and cherry. A drop of water really changes things! The hard cherry candy flavor persisted from beginning to end, bringing along soft caramel chews, fruit basket and dried earth. While the finish wasn't particularly long, it was very pleasing with the cherry candy, sweet tobacco, and ripe fruits with an oaky backbone. The proof makes this a very easy drinker and we can't wait to get our hands on the other expressions in this series.
ABV: 49.0% (98 proof)
Distillery: 15 Stars Bourbon
Suggested retail price: $69.99
Drink The Bottles score: 92/100
