I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised when I took the first sip of Stillhouse Black Bourbon. My expectations weren’t that high, as I only paid $22, so on top of being a very drinkable bourbon, it is quite affordable.
So how drinkable was it?
The nose hits you with a bit of alcohol, but it quickly mixes with wood char.
The palate starts in a very similar fashion. The alcohol burns then quickly turns to mild oak char that finishes with a touch of bitterness, astringency, and spice from the coffee ground and rye. Those coffee notes through me at first. Stillhouse Black Bourbon is “mellowed in coffee beans”, but I didn’t know that until after I’d taken the first few sips. Then it clicked, that bitterness and astringency is from the coffee.
Even though I’m giving Stillhouse Black Bourbon a 61, putting it in the Mixers or On Ice category, its already a “bottle” that I’ve bought more than once. It is perfect for mixers, and better yet, it is perfect for camping and hiking, where not having a glass bottle is a real bonus.
Color
Dark amber and brown.
Proof
40.0% ABV
Pros
- Packaged in a metal tin, which makes it perfect for camping and hiking as well as parties where you don’t want to take a glass bottle.
- Great bang for the buck when it comes to value.
Cons
- Some drinkers may not like the opening astringency.
- If you like your whiskey neat, this might not be right for you. It really does need some ice or be put in a mixed drink to help smooth out the rough edges.
- It is packaged in a squarish metal case, while being awesome, also means its hard to tell when you are almost out of Stillhouse.
