Pinhook Bohemian Bourbon High Proof Review

About – “The first bourbon in half a century to be distilled, aged and bottled at the legendary Old Taylor Distillery (now Castle & Key) and Pinhook’s inaugural bourbon crafted from its custom Kentucky distillate. This limited expression of 100 barrels, aged more than 34 months, was blended and proofed by Sean Josephs, Pinhook’s Co-Founder and Master Taster.” As the first release from Castle & Key this is somewhat of a milestone release. The 75% corn, 10% rye, and 15% malted barley mash bill is custom for Pinhook. Bohemian Bourbon is bottled at 114.5 proof and retails for $50.

Nose – Caramel and Nuts. It almost reminds me of the notes you get from a lot of Heaven Hill products. As it opens up the nuts shift into more of a marzipan. There is a considerable sting of ethanol as well.

Palate – Hot, hot hot!! The spice stands out strongly as Bohemian Bourbon coats the palate with an oily mouth feel. There are some faint caramel notes from the nose that are mostly hidden by the spice. There is a bit of youth in the form of green wood on the mid to back palate. The heat and the young oak carry over into a medium-long finish.

Score – D+

Verdict – As a product that I have been looking forward to for some time I am mildly disappointed by this release. The positive thing that I can say about Bohemian Bourbon is the flavor profile leaves me feeling like it does have a lot of potential to round out with more aging, but I honestly think it needs a solid 4 years more time in the barrel.