The Whiskey Reviewer A World of Whiskey, Poured Every Weekday
By Douglas Fraser
Rating: A
A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Bourbon
(Credit: Richard Thomas)
A. Smith Bowman is the oldest distillery in the state of Virginia, and is known for both its longevity and producing award-winning whiskey. Now Bowman has made a brand extension in the form of an annual release of a 10 year old small batch, cask strength bourbon. This bottle was released by lottery in late June 2021, so availability is now scarce, but anyone who loves barrel proof or cask strength whisky will want to jump on this in 2022.
The Bourbon
A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the first uncut and non-chill filtered release. Each batch is comprised of barrels hand-selected by Master Distiller Brian Prewitt from the lower tiers in their Warehouses A1 and A. The whiskey was matured for a minimum of 10 long years in new, charred oak barrels and was bottled at cask strength of 141.1 proof/70.5% ABV.
This whiskey may quite possibly be the new favorite for lovers of high proof. Although the retail price is a little high, it is well worth a try.
Color: Rich Auburn
Upon nosing I was hit with a blast of the alcohol fumes, but after letting it breath for a few moments it opens up to rich and complex aromas. Notes of toasted oak and cedar open on the nose that give way to rich vanilla, maple syrup, brown butter, baking spices, caramel apple, and a slight cherry note. The palate is oh-so smooth and is not overwhelming at all.
It does not drink like a dram that is 70% ABV, but rather 55-60% ABV. Although very oily, it continues with notes of vanilla, brown sugar, toasted pecans, baking spices, cloves, and toasted oak. The finish is long and lingers for quite a while, but in an awesome way. The flavors of toasted oak, cloves, baking spices, and roasted pecans continue to linger long after the tasting.
Adding water, I was able to detect more vanilla, caramel, and some candy apple. However, it mellowed the baking spice notes and some of the alcohol burn.
The Price
The suggested retail price for A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is $99.
