Military Bourbon Review: Country Smooth Small Batch

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History – Founded in 2015 by Lori Carcich, Country Smooth was born out of her vision to create a whiskey that perfectly captures the spirit of country music and American tradition. She wanted to craft a whiskey that was smooth, versatile, and approachable—something that both new and seasoned whiskey drinkers could enjoy. With a careful selection of ingredients and a refined distillation process, Lori and her team created a spirit that’s as enjoyable neat as it is in a cocktail.

The brand’s identity is deeply tied to the values of country music, Americana, and the simple joys of the great outdoors. Country Smooth’s marketing reflects this, with imagery that celebrates rural landscapes, country concerts, and everyday life that resonates with its audience. As a female-founded brand in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Lori has emphasized the importance of breaking gender barriers and fostering diversity in whiskey-making. This focus on inclusivity has helped Country Smooth stand out in a competitive market, connecting with a wide and diverse audience.

Since its launch, Country Smooth has expanded its product line while staying true to its commitment to smoothness and accessibility. The original Country Smooth American Whiskey remains the flagship, but the brand has also introduced limited edition releases and special blends to keep the offerings fresh and exciting. Their involvement in the country music scene, through sponsorships and collaborations at festivals and concerts, has played a crucial role in building a loyal community of fans who love the brand’s blend of tradition and modernity.

As a newer brand, Country Smooth has faced the challenge of distinguishing itself from more established competitors. However, its unique positioning and dedication to a lifestyle that celebrates both tradition and modernity have allowed it to carve out a niche in the market. Looking ahead, Country Smooth is poised to continue expanding its offerings and deepening its connections with the community, all while staying true to the values that have made the brand what it is today. Let’s dig in!

Appearance – Has a great color to it. The wine bottle design is striking and exudes a sense of class. It’s beautifully branded, showcasing its reputation as a smooth whiskey while also honoring all five branches of the United States military with its star logo. The attention to detail is impressive—5 stars on the bottle design, Lori!

Nose –  Notes of banana pancakes, pecan pie, and classic vanilla greet you without being overpowering, thanks to its slightly lower proof. It’s a great first impression.

Palate – Flavors of black licorice, light cinnamon, and hickory wood dominate the palate. The body and mouthfeel are impressively thick for a 2-year bourbon, which adds to its appeal.

Finish – Subtle peach and port wine notes linger on the finish, followed by a light, slow cooling sensation that leaves you savoring the experience.

Value – The value is outstanding for the quality you’re getting. Country Smooth lives up to its name, offering a smooth whiskey experience at a smooth price point.

Summary – Since its inception, Country Smooth has expanded its product line while remaining committed to its core principles of smoothness and accessibility. The original American Whiskey remains the flagship, but limited edition releases and special blends keep the offerings fresh and exciting. The brand’s active involvement in the country music scene, through sponsorships and collaborations, has helped build a loyal fan base that appreciates its blend of tradition and modernity.

The whiskey itself is equally impressive. Its appearance is striking, with a wine bottle design that exudes class and honors all five branches of the U.S. military with a star logo. On the nose, it offers notes of banana pancakes, pecan pie, and classic vanilla. The palate is rich with flavors of black licorice, light cinnamon, and hickory wood, and the finish is characterized by subtle peach and port wine notes. 

In closing, Country Smooth stands out not just for its quality but for its commitment to inclusivity and tradition. As it continues to grow and evolve, the brand remains dedicated to providing a whiskey that resonates with those who appreciate both the heritage and the modern spirit of America. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or new to the scene, Country Smooth offers an experience that’s as inviting as it is satisfying. Cheers!

“The value of this whiskey is outstanding, offering a smooth experience at a smooth price point.”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 5

Appearance- 1-10 – 8

Nose- 1-20 – 17

Palate- 1-20 – 15

Finish- 1-20 – 15

Value- 1-20 – 20