15 Stars Sherry Cask Finish Bourbon bottled at 115 proof — a $179 expression that merits close attention.
Nose
Typical brown-orange range seen with slightly older bourbons, though the sherry cask finishing give this a deeper amber color. Nice viscosity, nice leg action inside the glass.
Palate
Sweetness right away, a type of candy corn and warm brown sugar. The higher proof does not play into a burn in the nostrils, likely from the sherry cask mellowing. Faint hint of nuttiness. This opens up nicely right away, with warm butter notes, sweetness from the corn of the bourbon and some nuttiness from the sherry cask interchange. It holds long on the tongue, providing for a nice decadent finish with a subtle burn that makes it an appealing offering to sip slowly and deliberately. It isnt overly complex, buoying its core flavors with hints of taffy, slight spice, brownie and a very subtle jab of toasted oat.
Finish
A blend of straight bourbons (13 year Kentucky, 10 year Indiana) finished in ex-sherry casks; 115 proof; $179. 15 Stars Sherry Cask Finish is a well rounded bourbon, with sherry cask finishing notes that are pleasant to enjoy. I liked it, but wasn’t deeply in love with it. The price tag in particular for me is a sticking point, as I’ve had a decent number of other sherry cask finished bourbons over the years tasting just as good but at a lower price point. Still, if you don’t mind stretching your wallet a bit it might be worth having a bottle on your shelf.
Verdict
15 Stars Sherry Cask Finish Bourbon delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its $179 price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
