Green River 1885 Bourbon Review

September 5, 2024

Bill Varnell

Whiskey Reviews

I have had the opportunity to sample all of Green River Distilling Company’s expressions to date.

Their 1885 Bourbon is a very approachable rail bourbon at the price point. Not a standout by any means, but I don’t think that’s what they were aiming for. As you will see in the tasting notes, this is an average bourbon that won’t break the bank!

Green River 1885 Bourbon

Class: Kentucky Straight Bourbon

SRP: $21/1 Liter

Notes:

Aged a minium of 4 years in new American oak barrels
Non-Chill Filtered
Mash bill: 76% corn, 15% rye, 9% malted barley
Bottled at 42.5% ABV (85 proof)

Nose: 60.5/100

Notes of vanilla with a faint nuttiness and a hint of cinnamon. Overall, an unassuming nose.

Palate: 60/100

There is a pleasant sweetness up front, with light oak and baking spices.

Finish: 65/100

A medium finish of caramel, oak, and vanilla.

Overall: 61.8/100

Recommendation: At this price point, it’s suitable as a cocktail bourbon. Certainly a value to have in your cabinet.

From the distillery's website:

About Green River Distilling Co.

“Originally founded in 1885 by J.W. McCulloch, Green River Distilling Co. (DSP-KY-10) is the 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky. The brand quickly became synonymous with quality and regarded as some of the finest bourbon in Kentucky. Known as "the Whiskey Without Regrets," the brand enjoys a long, rich history as the official medicinal whiskey of the U.S. Marine Hospital and has been referenced as the most expensive whiskey ever sold - 20 barrels were once traded for an interest in a Colorado gold mine before fire and Prohibition relegated the brand to history. Re-established in 2022, Green River Distilling Co. is a proud citizen of Owensboro, Kentucky and serves as the westernmost outpost of the Kentucky Bourbon TrailTM. Green River is part of Bardstown Bourbon Company, a top 10 distiller in the U.S. For more information, visit greenriverspirits.com.”