North Carolina based Oaklore Distilling began its “Story Series” of distinctive releases earlier this year with a rye whiskey aged in Port casks, which we enjoyed very much. For a sophomore release, they are introducing a four-grain bourbon finished in Oloroso sherry casks.

The whiskey we are trying today began as a five- to six-year-old, non-chill filtered four-grain bourbon made from a mashbill consisting of 70% corn, 10% rye, 10% wheat, and 10% malted barley. The whiskey was then re-barreled for another 8 to 12 months in a variety of #2, #3, and #4 level charred barrels. Finally, the whiskey was transferred to Spanish Oloroso sherry barrels for 12 to 18 additional months of aging. This careful aging and blending of grains and woods promises that lots of flavors will be in play. Let’s give it a try.

Oaklore Oloroso Sherry Cask Bourbon Review

Poured in the glass, the whiskey exudes deep, lovely aromas of caramel and raisins as well as cherry cola, vanilla, and a touch of nutmeg. It’s complex but also simply enjoyable. Taking a sip, the oily mouthfeel exhibits the same syrupy note that we found in the Oaklore Port Cask Rye. On the palate, cherry cola hits first, followed by caramel, raisins, and fig — the bourbon character and the sherry finish playing together well. The midpalate introduces gentle, drying oak.

The finish is long and enjoyable but takes a slight turn toward cherry cough medicine. Throughout, the alcohol is well hidden. Altogether, this is a fine whiskey that marries a range of flavors into a cohesive whole, and I look forward to sipping it in the winter. The whiskey’s viscosity and deep flavors seem particularly well-suited to snowy evenings.

95 proof.

A- / $100

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