Tag: South Carolina

Jimmy Red Single Barrel Bourbon

For 10 years, High Wire Distilling Co. in Charleston has crafted quality spirits from local and regional crops. When it came time to create their signature bourbon, they decided on a South Carolina grown, 100% Jimmy Red corn mash bill. This is their single-barrel expression.

Pour: Jimmy Red Single Barrel Bourbon b. 794
Proof: 116.2
Age: not stated (reportedly 5 years)
Color: dense copper
Nose: cornbread, trail mix, peanut butter pie
Taste: grilled sweet corn, savory vanilla, white pepper
Finish: medium long w/ toasted caramel, barrel char, faint mint

Overall: Jimmy Red barrel 794 is a fascinating bourbon – savory, yet sweet enough to maintain balance. I’m reminded of my great-grandmother’s cornbread, followed by a slice of peanut butter pie and a sprig of spearmint. A creamy and complex southern delight!

Rating: Top Jimmy.

Four Roses Single Barrel Select (OESF)

Four Roses Single Barrel private selections aren’t easily found in my neck of the woods. When I see one, I buy it, as was the case with this 10-year OESF barrel from “South Carolina Hospitality.” Based on the fact it hit multiple stores, it’s likely a distributor selection.

Pour: Four Roses Single Barrel Select (b. 79-6L)
Proof: 124.8
Age: 10 years, 2 months
Color: dense copper
Nose: heavy caramel, blood orange, toasted coconut
Taste: tart vanilla, oak char, tangy maple syrup
Finish: long, hot, and dry – cinnamon candy, raspberry tea, tobacco

Overall: While the nose sings with an enticing medley of caramel and dark fruit, the taste beats a tart & shaky rhythm. Any hopes for a rousing finale are swiftly shuffled off stage by its heat and drying finish. Not terrible; not great.

Rating: Every rose has its thorn.