
Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey is a true testament to heritage and innovation. Distilled at the historic Old Taylor Distillery, this 4-year-aged bourbon combines 73% white corn, 17% malted barley, and 10% rye for a refined mash bill that balances sweetness, nuttiness, and spice. Each batch is carefully blended using superior American white oak barrels, charred to perfection, and aged in unique climate conditions for unparalleled character. With notes of toffee, stone fruits, and baking spices, its velvety finish offers hints of toasted almonds and cinnamon. Whether sipped neat or in cocktails, it's a vibrant expression of Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship, perfect for enthusiasts seeking both tradition and contemporary elegance. Process & Profile Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon is crafted with meticulous care in the historic distillery originally established by Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. in 1887. The brand takes pride in overseeing every detail of the production process in-house. From sourcing locally grown white corn, rye, and malted barley to utilizing both traditional and modern distillation techniques, the distillery ensures superior quality. The bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years in new charred American oak barrels from Speyside Cooperage, delivering a profile steeped in Kentucky terroir and tradition. Barrel proofs are optimized for each batch, with this release featuring a balanced 98 proof (49% ABV). Tasting Notes Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon delights the senses with a harmonious blend of aromas, flavors, and a warming finish: Nose: Hints of lemon zest, powdered sugar, toasted cornbread, and caramelized sugar create a welcoming aroma. Palate: The taste is a symphony of toasted oak, cooked caramel, vanilla, and a touch of rye spice, complemented by subtle notes of croissant and floral undertones. Finish: Expect a medium finish with lingering flavors of caramel, oak, black pepper, and touches of cinnamon and honey, leaving you craving the next sip. What Makes It Special Castle & Key's Small Batch Bourbon marks the distillery's triumphant return to bourbon-making after decades of dormancy. What sets it apart is its exclusive mash bill (73% white corn, 17% malted barley, 10% rye), low barrel entry proof (107 proof), and commitment to small-batch blending for complex yet approachable flavors. The bourbon is produced using a sweet mash process, ensuring a smooth and unique profile. With its roots in one of Kentucky's most iconic distilleries, Castle & Key retains its historic charm, blending it with a contemporary, eco-conscious approach to whiskey-making. How to Enjoy Savor this versatile bourbon in a variety of ways to suit your preference: Neat: Perfect for appreciating its complex aroma and flavors. On the Rocks: A touch of ice highlights the bourbon's bright citrus and caramel notes. Cocktails: Elevate classic cocktails like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned with its toasted oak and vanilla profile. Seasonal Pairing: Its citrusy and spiced finish makes it a perfect companion for fall and winter gatherings. Rediscover the essence of tradition with Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey. From its historic origins and innovative craftsmanship to its captivating flavors, each sip tells a story of Kentucky bourbon reinvention. Whether you're enjoying it neat, in a cocktail, or with friends on a special occasion, Castle & Key is a standout choice for bourbon lovers everywhere. Frequently Asked Questions What is the flavor profile of Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey? Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon offers complex tasting notes. The aroma features honey, golden raisin, brown butter, orange blossom, baked nutmeg, and stone fruit. On the palate, you'll experience flavors of toffee, bread dough, dates, baking spices, and toasted almonds. The finish is warmed with cinnamon and allspice, leaving a lingering, spicy-sweet sensation. What is the mash bill for Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey? The bourbon is crafted with a mash bill of 73% white corn, 17% malted barley, and 10% rye. This balance of ingredients provides the bourbon with a hint of sweetness, nuttiness, and balanced spice. What is the proof and aging process of this bourbon? Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon is bottled at 51.5% ABV (103 proof). It is aged for at least four years in charred American white oak barrels, ensuring a fully developed flavor profile. The brand pays particular attention to barrel selection, working with Speyside Cooperage for custom barrels to enhance maturation. How is Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon crafted? This bourbon is created using traditional techniques with a focus on innovation. The distillation process employs Vendome stills, considered a gold standard in the industry. The barrels are toasted and charred to precise specifications before the bourbon is aged in dynamic climates across different warehouses to achieve intricate flavor development. Can you describe the production philosophy of Castle & Key Distillery? Castle & Key emphasizes transparency, quality, and craft. They work closely with local partners to source high-quality grains like white corn and heirloom varieties, ensuring a unique terroir. All spirits are produced from scratch, allowing the team to meticulously control each stage of production. Where is Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey made? Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon is produced at the Castle & Key Distillery, located on the historic grounds of the Old Taylor Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. The distillery, reopened in 2014, combines heritage-rich settings with modern distillation techniques. What are some recommended ways to enjoy Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon? This bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned. Its flavor complexity also makes it ideal for sipping slowly to appreciate its layered profile. Is Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon a good choice for bourbon enthusiasts? Castle & Key's Small Batch Bourbon is highly regarded for its flavor complexity and commitment to quality. While some reviews note it isn't as mature or striking as higher-aged bourbons, it represents an impressive offering from a relatively new distillery and is an excellent choice for those exploring craft bourbons.