We turn our attention to Chicken Cock Red Stave Petite Sirah Barrel Finish Bourbon bottled at 51.2% ABV); priced at $199. At $199.99, it enters a competitive field.
Nose
This is just pleasant to smell. Ever been inside a winery? There are hints of those types of aromas in the glass, with stone fruit, baked bread, maturing wine stock, light bodied grass. Vanilla and oak are very mildly noticeable as well.
Finish
No given age statement; mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye and 9% malted barley; finished in J. Wilkes Petite Sirah barrels; bottled at 102.4 proof (51.2% ABV); priced at $199.99. The Petite Sirah barrel finish is immediately noticeable in this bourbon, giving it more of an orange-reddish tone that looks warm and inviting. Extremely long lasting legs in the glass. Warm and spicy are the initial outtakes here, quickly delving into the essence of the grape, floral considerations, cranberry, pumpernickel bread and cherries. Again the typical vanilla and oak flavors associated with bourbon are muted, maybe too much so. A little more balance would be appreciated. The finish pops and then fades somewhat quickly, leaving just a slight off spice in its wake. I find Chicken Cock Red Stave Petite Sirah Barrel Finish Bourbon to be a good bourbon. It doesn’t blow my mind as I find the barrel finish on this to be a little off center in consideration to typical bourbon flavors one hopes for when they pop a bottle. Still, it is a solid offering for those looking for something a little different in this whiskey category.
Verdict
Chicken Cock Red Stave Petite Sirah Barrel Finish Bourbon delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its $199.99 price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
