Savage & Cooke Bourbon bottled at 100 proof — a $55 expression that merits close attention.
Nose
The Cabernet Sauvignon barrel finishing is immediately evident in the color, with a slight reddish influence in the typical golden amber. Legs and viscosity on this are solid. This is overall a really good bourbon, particularly on the nose side of things. The only thing really holding back from a better score is the fact I found the palate to be a little disjointed. Still, this is one you’ll want to consider, especially if you are a lover of Phinney’s wines.
Palate
This is rich and vibrant, with commanding scents of brown sugar, mushroom, oak, blackberries, rye bread and a hint of vanilla in the mix. 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.
Finish
Distilled from a mash bill of 75% corn/21% rye/4% malted barley; aged in New American Oak barrels a minimum of three years; partially finished in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels; bottled at 100 proof; priced at $55. This swims along with a bit of turbulence in my mouth but isnt too bad as it settles. Baking spice, blackberries, rye bread, vanilla, caramel and Jolly Rancher cherry drop in here.
Verdict
Savage & Cooke Bourbon delivers a thoroughly accomplished whiskey that justifies its $55 price point. It is well-crafted, balanced, and worthy of a place in any considered collection.
