Kentucky Owl is one of those brands that generates a lot of conversation in bourbon circles, and the Wiseman Bourbon — their Kentucky Straight Bourbon entry — is where most people start. At 45.4% ABV, it sits just above the legal minimum for straight bourbon and lands at a proof point that makes it genuinely versatile. I've been spending time with this one over the past few weeks, and it's a bottle that earns its place on a shelf without needing a backstory to prop it up.
The Wiseman line is Kentucky Owl's more accessible range, and this NAS expression doesn't carry an age statement — which, honestly, isn't a red flag in modern bourbon. What matters is what's in the glass, and at £63.75, you're paying a slight premium over your standard shelf bourbons. The question is whether it justifies that step up.
Tasting Notes
I'll be upfront — I'm not going to fabricate a laundry list of specific notes here. What I can tell you is that this drinks like a well-constructed Kentucky straight bourbon should. At 45.4%, it's not going to strip paint, but it carries enough weight to remind you this isn't flavoured water. The proof point is smart — it's approachable enough for someone building their bourbon knowledge, but there's genuine substance for those of us who've been at this a while. As a bartender, I always appreciated bourbons at this strength because they hold their own in a cocktail without bulldozing the other ingredients.
The Verdict
Here's what I think makes the Wiseman Bourbon worth your money: it's a competent, well-balanced Kentucky straight bourbon that doesn't rely on gimmicks. No barrel finishing tricks, no limited-edition nonsense — just bourbon, done properly. The 45.4% ABV is a sweet spot that gives you options. You can sip it neat and actually enjoy the experience, or you can build a proper cocktail with it and know it'll contribute rather than disappear.
At £63.75, it's not an impulse buy, and there are solid bourbons for less. But it drinks above its price point, and that counts for something. If you're looking to move beyond the usual suspects — your Buffalos and your Bulleit — without remortgaging, this is a genuine contender. I'm giving it a 7.9 out of 10. It does what it sets out to do with confidence, and I respect a bourbon that knows what it is.
Best Served
This is a natural Old Fashioned bourbon. The proof is perfect for it — strong enough to stand up to the sugar and bitters without turning the drink into a hot mess. Two dashes of Angostura, a barspoon of demerara syrup, a good stir over a large ice cube, and an expressed orange peel. That's the serve. If you're drinking it neat, give it five minutes in the glass — a little air opens up any straight bourbon at this proof, and you'll get more out of it. Don't waste this in a cola; it deserves better company than that.
