Military Bourbon Review: Casey Jones Wheated Small Batch

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History – During the era of Prohibition in the United States, when illicit distilleries dotted the landscape, one name stood out among the rest—Casey Jones. Situated in the picturesque town of Golden Pond, Kentucky, Casey Jones became synonymous with superior moonshine, coveted even by notorious figures like Al Capone. What set Golden Pond shine apart was not just the ingredients but the master stillmaker himself, Casey Jones.

Born in the aftermath of World War I, Golden Pond faced economic challenges, driving its inhabitants toward moonshining as a means of survival. In this landscape, Casey Jones emerged as a legend. His craftsmanship and innovative designs elevated him to a revered status in The Land Between The Lakes region. The artistry of his stills was unparalleled, with fellow moonshiners and even law enforcement recognizing a Casey Jones still by its superior quality.

Casey Jones’s journey into moonshining began with necessity, but his passion and skill turned it into an art form. With abundant resources like pristine water, corn, and sugar, Golden Pond provided the perfect backdrop for his endeavors. Each of Casey’s stills was a testament to his ingenuity and meticulous craftsmanship. Refusing to compromise on quality, he insisted on using only copper, eschewing cheaper materials like steel due to health concerns.

One of Casey’s most significant contributions to moonshining was his innovative cylindrical condenser, which revolutionized the distillation process, yielding higher-proof, better-tasting spirits in record time. Additionally, his square pot still design, also known as a coffin still, provided moonshiners with portability and discretion, essential qualities during the cat-and-mouse game with law enforcement.

Casey’s legacy extended far beyond Golden Pond, with his stills dotting the hollows of The Land Between The Rivers. However, his moonshining escapades eventually caught up with him, resulting in a two-year prison sentence. Upon his release, Casey retired, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.

Yet, the spirit of Casey Jones lived on through his grandson, Arlon Casey Jones, affectionately known as AJ. With AJ at the helm, Casey Jones Distillery continued the tradition of handcrafted spirits, utilizing the same family recipe and techniques passed down through generations. The heart of the distillery, a square copper pot still, serves as a tribute to Casey’s ingenuity and serves as the cornerstone of their operation.

Not content to rest on their laurels, Casey Jones Distillery is currently undergoing a $2 million expansion, which will include adding over 74 acres of property. This expansion will allow them to continue their tradition of true small-batch production, crafting spirits two barrels at a time. Additionally, they boast a 1000-gallon hybrid pot still, affectionately named the Workhorse, alongside a 200-gallon grandfather still, the world’s only industrial rectangle pot still.

In the modern era, Casey Jones Distillery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of moonshining in Kentucky. Guided by the spirit of Casey Jones and the expertise of AJ, the distillery continues to produce exceptional spirits that honor their heritage and uphold the tradition of craftsmanship that has defined them for generations. Let’s dig in!

Value – The value on this really holds as this Wheated Whiskey really stands out. The price is spot on for a product like this. Craft bourbons are a little more expensive as you typically pay for the blood, sweat and tears that accompany their bourbons. Not to forget the love and devotion that went into it.

Appearance – The bottle could use a little more love to it but having the mashbill right on the bottle is a great touch. It really helps the sipper understand the heart of the recipe.

Nose – Vanilla Custard / Sweet Bread / Waffles / Leather

Palate – Wow, Very Soft / Creamy, but not too much / Honey / Apples

Finish – Cloves / Very subtle burn on the finish but feels more cooling / Red Wine / Dry Pecans

Summary – Casey Jones Distillery’s Wheated Whiskey offers remarkable value and craftsmanship, standing out in the world of bourbons for its quality and affordability. While the bottle’s appearance might benefit from enhancement, the inclusion of the mashbill on the label adds a personal touch, reflecting the heart and dedication behind its creation. From its inviting aroma to its creamy texture and balanced flavors, this whiskey promises a truly satisfying experience with each sip.

“With a finish that leaves a subtle yet memorable impression, Casey Jones Distillery’s Wheated Whiskey embodies the artistry and passion of its makers. This whiskey leaves a lasting mark, inviting enthusiasts to savor its exceptional quality time and time again”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 3

Appearance- 1-10 – 5

Nose- 1-20 –18

Palate- 1-20 – 17

Finish- 1-20 – 15

Value- 1-20 – 19