Military Bourbon Review: Holladay Soft Red Wheat

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History – Benjamin Holladay emerges as a figure of remarkable enterprise and foresight, his contributions to the nation’s development obscured by the passage of time. Hailing from the fertile lands of Kentucky, he gravitated toward Weston, Missouri, a burgeoning nexus of opportunity in the unfolding drama of the American West.

Earnestly carving his niche amidst the dynamic landscape of commerce, Holladay ascended to prominence as a visionary transportation magnate, earning the epithet of the “Stagecoach King.” His indelible mark on the nation’s fabric was cemented through the establishment of the Overland Express—a vast network of stagecoach lines that interconnected the sprawling territories of the United States.

Beyond the realm of transportation, Holladay’s ambitions knew no bounds. He diversified his portfolio to encompass steamships, streetcars, and the iconic Pony Express, emblematic of the indomitable spirit of the American frontier.

However, it was amidst these grand endeavors that Holladay’s legacy took an unexpected turn, finding root in the fertile soil of Weston’s landscape. Here, against the backdrop of Lewis and Clark’s historic expedition, he established the Blue Springs Distillery. Anchored by the abundant limestone springs discovered by the intrepid explorers, this venture represented Holladay’s foray into the realm of bourbon production—a realm informed by his Kentucky heritage and nurtured by the region’s natural bounty.

Through the ebbs and flows of time, the Blue Springs Distillery endured, weathering the challenges of floods, fires, and the tumult of prohibition. Passed through successive hands, each steward contributing to its rich tapestry of history, the distillery remained a testament to Holladay’s enduring vision and entrepreneurial spirit.

Today, against the backdrop of Weston’s storied past, the Holladay Distillery stands as a beacon of American ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its revival in modern times, marked by a commitment to heritage and quality, pays homage to the pioneering legacy of Benjamin Holladay—a testament to the enduring impact of his endeavors on the landscape of American enterprise.

Let’s Dig In!

Value – $50 for this is I feel is a little high for what it is since its not yet mass marketed quite yet. I feel $40 is more appropriate.

Appearance – Super cool old school bottle with an old fashioned label. It has an identifier sticker that gives it its hand bottled look like it’s slapped on there. The twist top is fairly new to me as most bourbons come with a fancy cork. Somehow I like this because it’s different.

Nose – Pancakes / Fresh Baked Bread / Almond / Tiramisu

Palate – Maple Syrup / Smoke / Lots of Oak / Light on the Tongue true to its label – This is a very easy sipper.

Finish – Very Sweet / Lingering for 10 seconds / Mocha / Bread Pudding

Summary – As I delve into this review, I can’t help but admire Benjamin Holladay’s remarkable journey and his overlooked contributions to American enterprise. From his roots in Kentucky to his establishment in Weston, Missouri, he emerged as a visionary in commerce, earning the title of the “Stagecoach King” with his groundbreaking Overland Express. Beyond transportation, Holladay’s ventures into bourbon production, particularly with the Blue Springs Distillery, showcase his entrepreneurial spirit and enduring legacy. While I appreciate the quality of the product, I can’t help but feel that the $50 price tag might be a tad steep, considering its current market status.

“Nonetheless, the Holladay Distillery stands as a testament to American ingenuity and craftsmanship, a beacon of history and heritage in the modern era.“

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 8

Appearance- 1-10 – 10

Nose- 1-20 – 16

Palate- 1-20 – 18

Finish- 1-20 – 16

Value- 1-20 – 12