Wyoming Whiskey Single Barrel Bourbon Review

By April Manning

Rating: B-

Brad and Kate Mead got the gumption to make bourbon in 2006, leading them to conceive Wyoming Whiskey. They began distilling in 2009, their products were introduced to liquor stores in 2012, and it has been clear blue Wyoming skies ever since. It was so well received the Meads had to expand their production in order to meet the increasing brand for their up-and-coming spirit.

Wyoming Whiskey has a few features making it special in the ever-growing list of whiskey creators. First, they are actually producing everything they sell, which is not something all whiskey peddlers can say. A lot of distillers are buying their product from Indiana.

Also unlike a lot of the newcomers to the whiskey industry, Wyoming Whiskey takes the time to properly age their whiskey the “old school,” 53-gallon barrel way. All of their whiskey is aged in their rickhouses, and at this point for at least five years normally. This is a considerable difference in maturing when compared to the two year minimum others brag about.

During those five years their whiskey is subjected to the unique intense and drastic temperature fluctuations that can only be experienced in Wyoming. This dynamic shift from extreme heat in the summer to severe cold in the winter causes the barrels to “breathe” and soak up delectable flavor from the charred oak barrels.

The Bourbon
This special spirit is chosen from one barrel out of many according to its singular character and taste capturing a unique taste that can never be replicated again. To the eye this batch gives the appearance of a clear, pale ale with ashen highlights. When it hits the nose it gives a headier sensation than the Small Batch Bourbon with caramel and vanilla hanging heavy in the air.

Once again the lack of viscosity strikes the mouth first and the flavor evaporates quickly, so I needed several samples to grasp hold of it. There is more astringency to this whiskey that briefly hits mid-palate but not enough so as to be a turn-off. The finish is dry giving a buttery impression at the end. To me this whiskey was surprisingly bland, but it would be perfect for a novice whiskey drinker.

The Price
Wyoming Whiskey Single Barrel Bourbon fetches about $60 on average.