King of Kentucky 15 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon arrives at 65.3% ABV, Mash bill undisclosed, SRP $249. Priced at $249.99 but $2,300+ on the secondary market/ 750ml bottle, we assessed it with care.
Nose
This is deep golden mahogany with an orange undertone. A whiff of volatile acidity gives way to pungent, fruit-driven aromas of red cherries and caramel apples. The nose is fun and friendly with a sweet vanilla and toasty caramel scent. There are notes of red apples, clove, dried banana chips, and mild tobacco.
Palate
The finish is persistent and offers up layers of flavors, but Im just not convinced. The notes of vanilla and the aggressiveness of the palate detract from the enjoyment and sense of age of the whiskey. Water seems only to highlight its disjointedness. This is certainly very good, but I cant rank this among the top in its category. Previous years’ releases are sell for ten times their initial release price online, so if you live in Kentucky, this seems like a better investment than crypto. Best of luck sourcing a bottle.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
Verdict
King of Kentucky 15 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its $249.99 but $2,300+ on the secondary market/ 750ml bottle price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
