Cedar Ridge Double Barrel Bourbon

The Basics: 

Cedar Ridge Distillery

105 Proof

NAS

$50 MSRP

Nose:

Beignet, syrup, tart raspberry, bubble gum, and hint of chocolate.

Palate: 

Butter cookie, raspberry jam, and cocoa powder.

Finish:

Medium-long finish with stewed berries, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Cedar Ridge Port Cask Bourbon

The Basics: 

Cedar Ridge Distillery

94 Proof

NAS

$50 MSRP

Nose:

Strawberries with cream, vanilla, agave, and lime.

Palate: 

Bright red plum, baked peaches, and cinnamon.

Finish:

Medium finish with figs and mixed berry jam.

Final Thoughts:

Cedar Ridge Distillery has added two new Iowa bourbons to their lineup, including a double barrel and a port cask. The double barrel bourbon, coming in at 105 proof, takes their standard bourbon, and ages for an additional period of time in a newly charred oak barrel. The resulting whiskey has bold flavors with an undeniably creamy palate. Notes of beignet and butter cookie clearly drawing upon that creaminess, all complimented by tart raspberry jam to balance between the rich and fruity qualities. The port cask finish, at 94 proof, also utilizes the standard bourbon, which is aged for an additional period of time in former port wine barrels. The port lends an even stronger fruit note to the whiskey with red plum and strawberries in cream. As odd as it might sound, there was even a distinct agave and lime note on the nose which immediately reminded me of tequila. Overall, these are both great whiskies to drink. Cedar Ridge prides themselves on the use of Iowa corn in their mash bill for all of their products. I am no grain expert, but something about the Iowa corn brings about an almost Scotch-esque quality to the whiskey that I really enjoy. If I had to pick just one, my money is on the double barrel but you can’t go wrong with either.