Military Bourbon Review: Three Keys Distillery Small Batch Cask Strength

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History – Meet the founder Jessica Banish, a seasoned negotiator renowned for securing contracts with major suppliers for large corporations. With a wealth of experience from her tenure at GE, Jessica brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Originally from Kentucky, a region celebrated for its equestrian culture and exquisite bourbon, Jessica, her husband, and their three children traded suburban life for the tranquility of the countryside. Embracing the rich heritage of their surroundings, they transformed a historic general store on their property into a beacon of Kentucky pride, embarking on a new venture: crafting bourbon.

Fueled by their deep-rooted ties to Kentucky and driven by a thirst for independence, Jessica and her husband boldly entered the world of bourbon production. Their dream materialized in the form of Three Keys Distillery, embodying the spirit of grassroots entrepreneurship and the resilience of the Bluegrass State. Drawing on their shared experiences and a commitment to excellence, they enrolled in Moonshine University, delving into the intricacies of bourbon production, from chemistry to legal intricacies.

Despite the hurdles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Three Keys Distillery thrived, adapting to the evolving landscape by offering their product online nationwide. Jessica’s meticulous approach to sourcing premium ingredients, combined with a dedication to traditional methods, ensures that each bottle of Three Keys Distillery captures the essence of Kentucky’s esteemed distilling tradition.

Crafted from a mash bill of 70% Kentucky corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, Three Keys Distillery is a certified Kentucky product, with the majority of its ingredients sourced directly from local farmers. Prioritizing authenticity and quality, their bourbon is aged for a minimum of two years, with select batches aged up to four years in one to twelve barrels, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.

Behind the scenes, Jeff Tarae manages the financial aspects, while partners Rob Seweryniak and Tim Bannish lend their expertise to ensure the brand’s success and sustainability. Together, they are dedicated to preserving the legacy of Three Keys Distillery, delivering a product that encapsulates the essence of Kentucky’s illustrious distilling heritage.

Appearance – The story behind appearance resonates with me as it should for any mother or father. With each key on the bottle symbolizing another child’s life makes me fall in love with this design. I have two children myself and Jessica really hit the nail on the head with this idea. Very impressed.

Nose – It has an enticing aroma reminiscent of crisp apples and golden honey, evoking a lightness that sets it apart from its small batch predecessor. Let’s delve into its palate to uncover more.

Palate – The definitive essence of toffee, complemented by subtle undertones of gingerbread. Discover delicate whispers of cherry and the timeless embrace of classic oak.

Finish – It has a remarkably smooth finish for a 116 Proof Bourbon, gracefully descending with a gentle touch. Its subtlety shines through, leaving a refreshing hint of spearmint lingering on the palate for a satisfying 20 seconds, a gentle reminder of its presence.

Value – While undeniably a fine product, the value proposition may seem slightly steep at $78. Though it doesn’t quite stand out like its standard small batch counterpart, it still offers a commendable experience. Perhaps a slight adjustment in price, around $10 lower, could better reflect its worth without diminishing its quality.

Summary – Three Keys Distillery embodies the spirit of Kentucky, a tale of resilience, passion, and familial bonds woven into every drop of their meticulously crafted bourbon. Founded by Jessica Banish, a visionary entrepreneur with a penchant for quality and authenticity, this distillery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bluegrass State. From humble beginnings in a renovated general store to a thriving online presence, Three Keys Distillery has overcome obstacles with unwavering determination. With a mash bill sourced from local farmers and aged to perfection, each bottle represents not just a product, but a story of tradition and dedication. Supported by a team of like-minded individuals, Three Keys Distillery is committed to delivering an experience that honors Kentucky’s illustrious distilling heritage. As the aroma, palate, and finish of their bourbon delight the senses, one can’t help but admire the craftsmanship and passion behind every aspect of this remarkable endeavor. While the price may warrant consideration, the essence of Three Keys Distillery is priceless, a celebration of family, community, and the art of bourbon-making.

“While the price may warrant consideration, the essence of Three Keys Distillery is priceless, a celebration of family, community, and the art of bourbon-making.“

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 5

Appearance- 1-10 – 10

Nose- 1-20 – 14

Palate- 1-20 – 14

Finish- 1-20 – 15

Value- 1-20 – 12