In the ever-expanding landscape of whiskey aficionados, one name resonates deeply: The Sazerac Company. Known for its illustrious Buffalo Trace distillery, where the likes of Pappy Van Winkle, Eagle Rare, and E.H. Taylor are born, the empire extends its reach to the quiet corners of Virginia, where the A. Smith Bowman distillery thrives, crafting exceptional spirits with an understated grace.
Enter the latest gem from this Virginia treasure trove: the Abraham Bowman Oak Series. Uncertainty tingled the senses as I approached this newcomer, yet, upon tasting, skepticism dissolved into sheer admiration. This, dear readers, is no ordinary whiskey—it’s a symphony of flavor orchestrated with finesse and ingenuity.
A curious process underpins its creation. While some spirits begin their journey in the hallowed halls of Buffalo Trace, they make a pilgrimage to Virginia for a third distillation at A. Smith Bowman. This unconventional pilgrimage yields remarkable results, as evidenced by the Abraham Bowman Oak Series.
Take, for instance, the French Oak release. Distilled and barreled at A. Smith Bowman in 2012, it spent a patient 12 years maturing in a marriage of charred and uncharred French oak barrels. While the mashbill remains a closely guarded secret, one thing is clear: this is whiskey, not bourbon, owing to its non-exclusive dalliance with new charred oak.
But let’s shift focus from process to palate—a realm where this whiskey truly shines. The Oak Series, true to its name, delves deep into the alchemy of wood and whiskey, echoing Buffalo Trace’s Old Charter Oak lineup. Where Spanish Oak may have erred on the side of boldness, French Oak strikes a harmonious balance, its hue rich and inviting, its flavors nuanced and refined.
With each sip, a tapestry of flavors unfolds. Notes of cherry and grape dance delicately with vanilla, while a woody, buttery undertone adds depth. On the palate, a symphony of berry, oak, custard, and honey commingles with whispers of brown sugar, maple, and black pepper. It’s a journey that veers toward sweetness but never loses its vibrancy or complexity.
David Bock, A. Smith Bowman's head distiller, attributes this symphony of flavors to the judicious use of different barrels. "Once blended together," he elucidates, "the vanilla from the no-char barrels helps balance out the pepper notes from the charred barrels, creating a dynamic and delicious blend." And dynamic it is, a testament to the artistry and skill inherent in the crafting of fine spirits.
Indeed, the barrel is more than mere vessel; it’s a conduit for flavor, a catalyst for transformation. Some estimate that up to 70 percent of a whiskey’s flavor is imbued by the barrel—a notion that elevates endeavors like the Abraham Bowman Oak Series beyond mere marketing ploys.
As for the future, who can say? Chinkapin or mizunara oak may yet grace A. Smith Bowman’s repertoire, though a plea is made to spare us the amburana. Yet, amidst the speculation, one truth remains steadfast: this whiskey is nothing short of extraordinary.
So, dear readers, if fortune favors you and a bottle of this elixir graces your presence, consider yourself blessed. And if not, fear not the secondary market, for a whiskey of this caliber is worth every penny of its $100 asking price. Embark on this sensory journey, and let the Abraham Bowman Oak Series be your guide to the sublime.
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About A. Smith Bowman
A. Smith Bowman Distillery, often referred to simply as Bowman Distillery, is a historic American distillery located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Established in 1935, the distillery has a rich heritage of producing high-quality bourbon and other spirits. Named after the Bowman family, who were early settlers in Virginia, the distillery is known for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and small-batch production methods.
One of the distinguishing features of A. Smith Bowman Distillery is its focus on using locally sourced grains and pure limestone-filtered water from the nearby Shenandoah Valley, which contribute to the distinct flavor profile of its whiskies. The distillery's flagship product is its Bowman Brothers Small Batch Bourbon, a smooth and flavorful bourbon aged in new charred oak barrels.
In addition to its Small Batch Bourbon, A. Smith Bowman Distillery offers a variety of other spirits, including single barrel and limited-edition releases. These expressions often showcase innovative aging techniques, unique barrel finishes, and experimental mash bills, allowing enthusiasts to explore new and exciting flavors while still enjoying the craftsmanship and quality that the distillery is known for.
A. Smith Bowman Distillery has received numerous awards and accolades for its whiskies, earning recognition for their exceptional quality and flavor. The distillery's commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation has made it a beloved fixture in the American whiskey landscape, with its spirits cherished by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Overall, A. Smith Bowman Distillery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American whiskey-making, with a history that spans generations and a dedication to producing spirits of the highest caliber. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, A. Smith Bowman whiskeys offer a taste of Virginia's rich distilling heritage and a memorable drinking experience for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
About The Sazerac Company
The Sazerac Company is a prominent American spirits company with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Founded in New Orleans in 1838 by Antoine Peychaud, the inventor of the famous Peychaud's Bitters, the company initially gained fame for its namesake cocktail, the Sazerac. Over the years, the Sazerac Company expanded its portfolio to include a wide range of spirits, liqueurs, and other alcoholic beverages, becoming one of the largest family-owned spirits companies in the United States.
Today, the Sazerac Company is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and operates multiple distilleries and production facilities across the United States and around the world. The company's portfolio includes iconic brands such as Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Sazerac Rye, Southern Comfort, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, and many others, each with its own unique heritage and legacy.
One of the hallmarks of the Sazerac Company is its commitment to quality and craftsmanship in every aspect of its operations. From sourcing the finest ingredients to utilizing time-honored production techniques, the company strives to ensure that each product meets the highest standards of excellence. This dedication to quality has earned the Sazerac Company numerous awards and accolades, cementing its reputation as a leader in the spirits industry.
In addition to its focus on quality, the Sazerac Company is also known for its innovation and adaptability in the ever-evolving spirits market. The company continually explores new trends, flavors, and product offerings to meet the changing preferences of consumers while staying true to its heritage and values.
Overall, the Sazerac Company remains a respected and influential player in the global spirits industry, with a legacy of excellence that spans generations. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Sazerac Company brands offer a taste of tradition, quality, and craftsmanship that has made them beloved by enthusiasts and connoisseurs around the world.
