James Oliver American Whiskey Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Portland, Oregon, USA.
Type: American Whiskey (not officially classified as Bourbon due to specific maturation processes).
Distillation and Maturation Process: Double-barreled; initially in new North American oak (potentially charred) and subsequently in used French oak casks, which is atypical for American whiskey. The use of used French oak is not standard for bourbon, leading to its classification ambiguity.
Age Statement: No age statement provided.
Color and Clarity: Deep color, though it's unclear if coloring has been added.
Bottle Design: The bottle mentions "grain corn" as a primary ingredient and features a plastic cork. It also references "N.A.O" (North American Oak) and used French oak, indicating its double-barreling process.

Balance of Flavors: A typical vanilla and caramel taste with a distinct nuttiness and woodiness, enhanced by the French oak's spiciness, bitterness, and tannins.
Unique Characteristics: The whiskey exhibits a smooth bourbon-like profile with a pronounced woody note, alongside flavors of vanilla, roasted almonds, and a creamy texture.
Comparison: While it shares similarities with traditional bourbon, its use of French oak and the resulting flavor nuances distinguish it from standard American whiskeys.

Anecdote: The story of James Oliver begins at 14 years old when he stumbled upon a whiskey still while hunting pheasants, marking his introduction to whiskey-making by moonshiners. This encounter is celebrated as the continuation of the James Oliver tradition of crafting whiskey.

Historical Context: The whiskey pays homage to American moonshining and bootlegging traditions, as indicated by the "Bootleggers Spirit" label. Its production in Portland, Oregon, and the unconventional use of French oak casks highlight a unique American whiskey identity that bridges traditional and innovative practices.

"It's got a nice typical vanilla caramel taste with a distinct nuttiness and woodiness."
"It's a pleasant drinking whiskey... a bourbon style whiskey with a distinct woody note."
The whiskey's classification as not quite bourbon due to its maturation process is a point of interest and discussion.

James Oliver American Whiskey is a unique, double-barreled whiskey from Portland, Oregon, that challenges traditional bourbon classifications.
It features a rich flavor profile with vanilla, caramel, nuttiness, and a pronounced woodiness from its maturation in both North American and used French oak casks.
The whiskey's backstory and production pay tribute to American moonshining traditions while introducing innovative maturation techniques.
Despite its bourbon-like qualities, the use of French oak and the absence of an official bourbon classification make it a distinctive choice for whiskey enthusiasts.

Bourbon Enthusiasts looking for a whiskey with a twist on traditional flavors.
Whiskey Adventurers interested in unique maturation processes and flavor profiles.
History Buffs fascinated by the lore of American moonshining and whiskey crafting traditions.
New Whiskey Drinkers may appreciate its smooth, approachable flavor profile, though the distinct woodiness might appeal more to those with a preference for oaky notes.