McKenzie Bourbon Whiskey Review

About – “McKenzie Bourbon Whiskey is a very rich bourbon with just enough rye spice to complement the subtle sweetness. A local variety of corn makes 70% of the mash bill.” McKenzie bourbon is produced by Finger Lakes Distilling in New York. It is aged for a minimum of four years, but much of the bourbon is in the 5-6 year range, bottled at 92 proof, and costs around $40.

Nose – Dark toffee accompanied by vanilla, oak, and a little bit of must that is usually in high aged bourbon. As it opens up graham cracker starts to come through. A lot of dark notes on the nose here.

Palate – The toffee from the nose is slightly brighter on the palate and more akin to butterscotch. Cinnamon comes through in the mid-palate along with bitter oak that carries all the way through the finish. Finish is medium length and is all bitter oak accompanied by a touch of raw grain.

Score – C

Verdict – This bourbon does have some redeeming qualities, but it isn’t one I will find myself reaching for frequently. The raw grain note on the finish is a turnoff for me. That won’t be the case for everyone, but this is my review. Normally that is something I think would come out with age, but with this stuff being in the 5-6 year range I’m not so sure it will. If it does and the rest of the flavors continue to develop along the current path this could be great. Until then it just doesn’t do it for me.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *