Bondstone

I.J.W. Whiskey is a producer that has fallen somewhat under the radar - but this is a deliberate move by the company to allow them to focus on building a portfolio of brands and ensuring top quality throughout. Laying down barrels since 2017, the company sources their spirit from 5 distilleries around Kentucky as opposed to distilling their own - although the spirit is made under contract to distinct specifications the team require. Those distilleries are kept secret but there are strong indications that both Bardstown and Wilderness Trail are involved in some form. Kevin Curtis, previously Master Distiller at the likes of Woodford Reserve, Michter's and Angel's Envy, along with master blender Steve Hughes - who spent 35 years with Four Roses - also ensure plenty of experience and integrity go into every release.

Bondstone Double Oak sees a marriage of high-rye mashbill Bourbon that was aged for a minimum of 4 years before being transferred in a second batch of casks that are freshly charred but haven't had anything in previously - meaning the 'Straight Bourbon' category can still be stated.

This is incredibly impressive on the nose, with strong hints of baking spices and even a touch of tannin. This follows through onto the palate, with salted caramel coming through and a red fruit notes that would make me think some kind of red wine casks have been used - even though we know they haven't! It's a classic Bourbon in every sense, drinking well neat or in a top drawer Old Fashioned.