We have a lot of bourbon choices these days, and for the consumer, it is a win. There are plenty of reasons for bourbon lovers to smile. I just discovered another one. Among the wide variety of interesting and high quality expressions produced by Cedar Ridge Distillery in Iowa, lives their core expressions. These include an American Single Malt, a Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a Barrel Proof Bourbon, a Wheat Whiskey, and a Straight Rye Whiskey. There are 24 additional whiskey expressions produced by Cedar Ridge as limited and special releases. It should be noted that apart from all the whiskey, they also produce an impressive catalog of wine, rums, brandy, vodka, and gin. This right here is an impressive lineup and plenty enough versatility to fully stock any small restaurant or home bar.
But when it comes to whiskey, Murphy Quint is the Head Distiller at Cedar Ridge, and when I survey all of the various whiskey expressions offered, one might begin to think that Murphy could actually be a superhero without the cape.
The Straight Bourbon Whiskey has to be the workhorse of their core collection. It is 43% ABV, 86 proof with a mash bill of 74% Iowa corn, 14% rye, and 12% 2-Row Malted Barley. It is blended from 3-to-4-year-old barrels. It is offered in 750ml bottles at $34.99.
If I could have a bourbon custom-ordered to my own tastes and preference, this would be it. The 74/14/12 mash bill is exactly what I would use and bottled at 86 proof, it is offered at my personal “sweet spot” of ABV.
The color: In my Glencairn glass, the color is attractive light amber. Long tears tells me to expect some body on this one.
On the nose: Initially I discover the aroma of freshly-roasted corn. This is followed by lesser notes of warm brown sugar, vanilla, and then some delightful oakiness.
On the palate: The mouthfeel is soft and robust as it wants to coat the tongue. Notes of corn once again were front and center, this time with some caramel candy notes supporting it. The oak is present but there are also notes of dark fruit, clove and a hint of baking spice.
The finish is beautiful, quite long and dry, which is something I prefer in a bourbon.
Cedar Ridge Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a best-in-class-level expression that is both complex and well-balanced. It has been carefully crafted to become a classic bourbon with broad appeal. The result is a delicious and versatile bourbon which can easily be enjoyed neat, over rocks, or mixed in your favorite cocktail.
Cedar Ridge declares, “Our Original 86 Bourbon is the best of the Midwest in a bottle!” They are not wrong about that. This expression has received a collection of high marks and won several industry awards over a three year period. This is an expression that once you try it, you’re going to want to keep on hand.
Discover more at https://cedarridgedistillery.com/
