Daviess County Cabernet Sauvignon Finish | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Kentucky, USA.
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whiskey is a unique combination of two bourbon mash bills: a smooth-wheated and a traditional rye, offering a balance of sweetness and spice. It undergoes a six-month finishing period in Cabernet Sauvignon casks, following a traditional maturation in fresh American oak casks as per Kentucky straight bourbon tradition.
Age Statement: As a straight bourbon, it must be at least two years old.
Color and Bottle Design: The review does not detail the color or bottle design, but it mentions a makeshift legal information sticker for the German market, indicating a young whiskey from a distillery that opened in 2018 (Lux Row Distillers).

Balance of Flavors: The whiskey presents a complex balance between the traditional Kentucky straight bourbon flavors of vanilla and caramel and the deeper, heavier influences of the Cabernet Sauvignon finish.
Unique Characteristics: It is described as heavier and stronger than expected, with a very present finish that brings a lot of grapes, dark oak, and bitterness. The Cabernet Sauvignon cask finish adds a European influence, making it significantly different from a typical Kentucky straight bourbon.
Comparison: The whiskey is noted to be more spicy than usual due to the rye content, with a sweet and smooth side possibly attributed to the wheat. It's difficult to compare directly to other whiskies due to its unique variation and flavor profile.

Distillery Background: Lux Row Distillers, which opened in 2018, is hinted at having a connection to a distillery tradition dating back to 1874, though the reviewer is skeptical about a direct historical link. The distillery has invested significantly, indicating a professional and long-term approach to whiskey production.

Kentucky Tradition: The whiskey embodies the rich tradition of Kentucky bourbon making, with a twist through its innovative use of Cabernet Sauvignon casks for finishing, blending American and European influences.

"It's a lot different to a normal Kentucky straight bourbon. It's heavy. It's grapey."
"You do feel a bit of youth in it. I think they will develop it over the next years to make it, yeah, a really superior whiskey."
"It's definitely worth something to try out. Don't expect to buy a stereotypical Kentucky straight bourbon because it's not."

Daviess County Cabernet Sauvignon Finish is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with a unique flavor profile due to its finishing in Cabernet Sauvignon casks.
The whiskey combines traditional bourbon flavors with the heavier, grape-influenced notes from the wine casks, offering a complex and spicy taste.
Lux Row Distillers, despite being relatively new, has shown a commitment to quality and innovation in whiskey production.
The whiskey is recommended for those interested in exploring new and unique bourbon flavors beyond the stereotypical Kentucky straight bourbon.

Bourbon Enthusiasts: Those with a deep appreciation for bourbon looking to explore innovative finishes and flavor profiles.
Wine Lovers: Individuals who enjoy wine might find the Cabernet Sauvignon finish intriguing and a pleasant bridge between the worlds of wine and whiskey.
Adventurous Drinkers: Anyone open to trying unique and less conventional whiskey expressions.
Collectors: Given its unique characteristics and the potential for the whiskey to evolve, collectors might be interested in acquiring a bottle for their collection.