David Nicholson Reserve | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Distilled and aged in Kentucky, USA.
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whiskey is aged in new American oak casks, which contribute to its color and flavor profile. The exact distillery of origin is unclear, as it is bottled for Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, and could potentially be sourced from another distillery.
Age Statement: While not explicitly stated, the host infers it might be around 5-6 years old based on its flavor profile.
Color and Bottle Design: The whiskey has a beautiful color attributed to well-charred or heavily toasted barrels. The bottle design includes a clear indication of its 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume) status.

Balance of Flavors: The whiskey offers a full-bodied and extra matured flavor profile, with a distinctive spicy taste.
Unique Characteristics: It has a stereotypical Kentucky Straight Bourbon flavor with vanilla, caramel, and honey notes, complemented by a significant oakiness. The caramel flavor is described as more well-done, suggesting the use of very well charred or heavily toasted barrels.
Comparison: It is more intense and has a stronger oak and barrel character than other typical Kentucky Straight Bourbons, which are known for being smooth, round, and mellow.

Brand History: The David Nicholson brand's history and significance in the United States are not well known to the host, indicating it might have a more niche or localized reputation.

Kentucky Heritage: As a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it carries the heritage and traditional characteristics of bourbons from this region, known for their distinctive flavor profiles influenced by the local climate and aging processes.

"It's the stereotypical Kentucky Straight Bourbon."
"It feels like maybe there's a very well charred or very heavily toasted barrels used in there."
"It's not as mild as you know it from other stereotypical Kentucky Straight Bourbon... But this is more of a strong one."
"Beautiful. I like it."

David Nicholson Reserve is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon with an ambiguous distillery origin, potentially aged around 5-6 years.
It features a full-bodied flavor with vanilla, caramel, honey, and a pronounced oakiness, attributed to well-charred or heavily toasted barrels.
The whiskey is more intense and oak-forward than typical bourbons, with a well-done caramel flavor suggesting a deeper char on the barrels.
The brand's history and significance are not well-detailed, indicating it may be lesser-known or have a niche appeal.
The whiskey is appreciated for its strong character and is recommended for those who enjoy a more robust Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals with a deep appreciation for Kentucky Straight Bourbons and their traditional flavor profiles will likely enjoy the David Nicholson Reserve for its classic yet robust character.
Adventurous Drinkers: Those looking to explore beyond the well-known bourbon brands and interested in discovering bourbons with a stronger oak influence and unique charred flavors.
Value Seekers: With the reduction in price due to the absence of EU tariffs, this bourbon presents a good value proposition for European consumers seeking quality American whiskey at a more accessible price point.