Military Bourbon Review: Taconic Double Barrel Maple Bourbon

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History – Embedded deep within the ethos of Taconic Distillery lies an unwavering commitment to preserving the essence of their whiskey’s flavor—a commitment that sets them apart in an industry often driven by trends and shortcuts. Unlike many of their counterparts who prioritize clarity through chill filtration, Taconic remains steadfast in their belief that the true soul of whiskey lies in its rich and intricate flavor profile. This guiding principle shapes every aspect of their production process, ensuring that each bottle encapsulates the full depth and complexity derived from the grains and the art of distillation.

At the heart of Taconic’s dedication to flavor preservation is their meticulous approach to distillation. Their whiskey is carefully crafted at a proof below 160, deliberately chosen to maintain a higher concentration of flavor-rich fatty molecules—often referred to as flavor oils. While other distilleries may sacrifice these essential elements in pursuit of visual clarity, Taconic remains resolute in their commitment to taste over appearance. By forgoing chill filtration, they embrace the natural cloudiness that occasionally arises, viewing it not as a flaw, but as a testament to the whiskey’s unadulterated flavor complexity.

Beyond the distillation process, Taconic recognizes that whiskey’s journey to maturity continues within the confines of oak barrels. Each barrel becomes a crucible of transformation, as the spirit interacts with the charred interior, absorbing nuanced flavors from the wood. Throughout the seasons, the whiskey breathes in the essence of the barrel, expanding and contracting with temperature fluctuations, a dance that facilitates the extraction and infusion of flavors. This dynamic aging process ensures that every batch of Taconic whiskey bears the distinctive imprint of its environment and maturation journey.

Central to Taconic’s aging process is the pivotal role played by the charred layer of the oak barrels. Beyond mere containment, the charred interior serves as a catalyst for flavor enhancement and purification. As the whiskey rests within the barrel, the char interacts with the spirit, softening or trapping undesirable congeners and facilitating transformative reactions. This process, known as “mellowing,” contributes to the refinement of the whiskey, imbuing it with a smoothness and depth that epitomizes Taconic’s commitment to excellence.

In essence, Taconic Distillery’s steadfast dedication to traditional methods and flavor integrity underscores their status as custodians of the craft. Through a blend of artistry, patience, and respect for the natural elements, they continue to redefine the boundaries of craft spirits. Each bottle of Taconic whiskey stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hudson Valley distillation, inviting enthusiasts to savor a sensory experience that celebrates the artistry and authenticity of true artisanal whiskey-making. Let’s dig in!

Value – The value for this product is right on par with a craft distillery price. This is even a special finishing edition.

Appearance – Palate – I love this bottle while the shape is plain, the label itself is something that pulls me in. I however love the outdoors which this company has as a big part of their brand and I love dogs as well. The label on the back highlights Duco the military working dog. Read the full article here!

Nose – Pancakes, Vanilla Custard, Maple Syrup, Light Cherry

Palate – Nutty, Maple Syrup, Honey and Fudge

Finish – Lingering for 10 seconds at least, Creamy and Super Sweet

Summary – This bottle has been staring at me for a while and I keep reaching for it. The sweetness of the maple syrup pulls me back time after time. It’s thick and even has all the full flavor that age gives it. This 5 year bourbon really impressed me as we do not have many finished products on our site. What I love most about it is their passion for military veterans and service members of this country. The nose is definitely there and the palate is there. The finish is great but not the best I have had but this is a 90 proof bourbon so it’s to be expected. Overall I really loved this product and even recommend them to friends all the time.

“Thank you for all that you have done for us and I can speak for these service members that this product is excellent!”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 10

Appearance- 1-10 – 10

Nose- 1-20 – 15

Palate- 1-20 – 15

Finish- 1-20 – 15

Value- 1-20 – 15