Reservoir Virginia Bourbon | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Richmond, Virginia, USA.
Type: Bourbon.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in fresh oak casks with an alligator char (charred for 55 seconds with a high flame and then quenched with water), which enhances the filtering properties of the cask.
Age Statement: Not explicitly stated, but the whiskey is described as dark, suggesting a longer maturation period. The distillery was founded in 2008, and by law, bourbon must be aged for at least two years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whiskey has a brown color, described as orange or orange peel, with no artificial coloring allowed by the Bourbon Act. The bottle design specifics were not discussed, but the seal is noted to be very good for preserving the whiskey, though tedious to open.

Balance of Flavors: A balance between nutty and fruity flavors with a significant oak influence.
Unique Characteristics: Not as aromatic as typical bourbons, with a definite fruity character on the nose, and a nutty, oaky taste with a long-lasting aftertaste. The maturation in quarter casks contributes to a bigger aromatic influence and more contact with wood.
Comparison: Distinguished from typical bourbons by its less aromatic but more fruity and nutty profile.

Distillery Location: The Reservoir Distillery is located in Richmond, Virginia, near the historic Jamestown settlement. The whiskey is noted for being a Virginia bourbon, highlighting its distinction from the more common Kentucky bourbons.

Historical Context: The whiskey's production in Virginia, near the first English settlement in North America, adds a layer of historical significance. The mention of the Bourbon Act emphasizes the legal and geographical nuances of bourbon production in the United States.

"This whiskey is a bourbon, but it's not from Kentucky... So this is a Virginia bourbon, in contrast to all those Kentucky bourbons."
"This is not that aromatic as typical bourbons are. So here we have a definite fruity character on the nose."
"This one is huge, very big, very intense, long-lasting aftertaste."

Reservoir Virginia Bourbon is a unique bourbon from Richmond, Virginia, matured in fresh oak casks with an alligator char.
It features a balance of nutty and fruity flavors, with a significant oak influence and a long-lasting aftertaste.
The whiskey is distinguished by its Virginia origin and the historical context of its production location.
Expert opinions highlight its unique flavor profile and the significance of its Virginia bourbon identity.

Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in exploring bourbons from states other than Kentucky.
History Buffs: Those who appreciate the historical and cultural significance behind the spirits they enjoy.
Flavor Chasers: Whiskey lovers seeking a bourbon with a unique balance of fruity and nutty flavors, and a significant oak influence.