Cream of Kentucky Cask Strength Straight Bourbon

The Cream of Kentucky brand boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1888, when it was first introduced by I. Trager & Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio. Before Prohibition, the brand was acquired by the renowned Schenley Company and relaunched in 1934, becoming one of the leading bourbon brands during the 1930s and 1940s. Its advertisements featured iconic artwork by Norman Rockwell.

In recent years, the brand has been revitalized, with the 2024 release crafted under the expertise of legendary Master Distiller Jim Rutledge (formerly of Four Roses). The 2025 release signifies a transition, now bottled at Kentucky Artisan Distillers—known for their popular Jefferson's brand—and no longer featuring Rutledge's signature. The mashbill remains consistent at 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% barley malt, mirroring that of Old Forester, other Brown-Forman bourbons, and Angel's Envy.

Nose: A harmonious blend of honey, vanilla, orange peel, floral notes reminiscent of honeysuckle, roasted and dried oak, cinnamon, clove, dried grain, cantaloupe, and darker sweet nougat.

Palate: Layers of honey, orange, apricot, vanilla, roasted oak, caramel nougat, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, licorice, toasted biscuit, and subtle earthy caraway seed.

Finish: Lingering notes of brown sugar, oak, and red apple skins, with an initial sip revealing a lasting finish of licorice.