Blue Note Bourbon, a celebrated name in American whiskey, has brought back its highly sought-after Honey Bourbon Cask, a limited-release straight bourbon whiskey that sold out in mere days during its initial launch last year. Crafted in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, this unique expression captures the soul of the city’s rich blues heritage while delivering a bold yet balanced flavor profile that whiskey enthusiasts crave. With only 1,800 bottles available, this release is poised to become a collector’s gem, offering a distinctive drinking experience that blends tradition with innovation.
A Fusion of Craftsmanship and Creativity
The Honey Bourbon Cask is a testament to Blue Note’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of whiskey-making. The process begins with a straight bourbon whiskey aged for a minimum of three years in American oak barrels. These barrels are then repurposed to age wildflower honey, infusing the wood with sweet, floral notes. The bourbon is returned to these honey-soaked casks for a second round of aging, creating a harmonious marriage of robust whiskey and delicate honey flavors. This innovative “art of fusion” results in a spirit that’s both powerful and smooth, with a complexity that unfolds with every sip.
Image credit: Blue Note
The bourbon’s mash bill, composed of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, provides a solid foundation for its bold character. Bottled at a potent 113.86 proof (56.93% ABV) and left unfiltered, the whiskey retains its full depth of flavor, delivering an authentic and unadulterated experience. The high proof adds a layer of intensity, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a whiskey with a bit of kick.
Tasting the Memphis Spirit
The Honey Bourbon Cask offers a sensory journey that reflects the craftsmanship behind it. On the nose, drinkers are greeted with inviting aromas of vanilla, cedar, and a subtle nuttiness, setting the stage for a rich tasting experience. The palate reveals a complex interplay of flavors, with notes of leather and pear mingling alongside the woody depth of cedar. The star of the show, however, is the wildflower honey, which weaves through the profile, adding a natural sweetness that balances the bourbon’s spicy rye backbone. The finish is gentle and warm, leaving lingering hints of wildflower and honey that invite another sip.
Image credit: Blue Note
This whiskey’s ability to balance strength and sweetness makes it versatile for different occasions. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for a bold cocktail, the Honey Bourbon Cask delivers a memorable experience that resonates with those who appreciate quality and character in their spirits.
A Limited Release with Nationwide Appeal
With only 1,800 bottles produced, the Honey Bourbon Cask is a rare find, available for a suggested retail price of $64.99. Whiskey lovers can purchase it online at BlueNoteBourbon.com through Bevstack, with shipping available to a wide range of states, including Alaska, California, Florida, New York, Texas, and more. The bourbon is also distributed in select markets across 22 U.S. states, such as Tennessee, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Michigan, ensuring that fans from coast to coast have a chance to secure a bottle before it disappears.
Rooted in Memphis Tradition
Blue Note Bourbon is more than just a spirit—it’s a celebration of Memphis, a city known for its vibrant music scene and sultry climate. The whiskey is distilled in partnership with Lofted Spirits, the parent company of Green River Distilling Company, and aged just north of downtown Memphis, where the Mississippi and Wolf Rivers meet. The region’s long, hot summers and cooler evenings play a crucial role in the aging process, driving the whiskey deep into the oak barrels to extract rich, bold flavors. This unique environment contributes to the smooth yet robust profile that defines Blue Note’s portfolio.
Image credit: Blue Note
The 110,000-square-foot production facility on Royal Avenue is a hub of whiskey-making excellence. Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., it features an intimate tasting room where visitors can explore the brand’s offerings. For those eager to dive deeper into the process, guided tours are available on Thursdays and Fridays for $10, with an optional Tasting Flight Experience for an additional $5. These tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how Blue Note crafts its award-winning whiskeys, making it a must-visit for bourbon enthusiasts passing through Memphis.
A Portfolio of Award-Winning Whiskeys
The Honey Bourbon Cask is just one chapter in Blue Note’s impressive story. Founded in 2014, B.R. Distilling Company, the oldest licensed distillery in Memphis, has built a reputation for producing high-quality whiskeys that resonate with bourbon lovers. The flagship portfolio includes Juke Joint ($34.99), Crossroads ($44.99), Uncut ($49.99), and Straight Rye Whiskey ($34.99), each offering a distinct take on the Blue Note style. In addition to these core expressions, the distillery regularly releases limited editions, such as the Premium Small Batch, Single Barrel Reserve, 17-year, Special Reserve, and Single Barrel Rye, all of which have earned accolades for their craftsmanship.
These limited releases showcase Blue Note’s ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. Whether it’s the spicy kick of the Straight Rye or the deep complexity of the 17-year, each expression reflects the distillery’s dedication to quality and its connection to the soulful spirit of Memphis.
Why Blue Note Stands Out
What sets Blue Note apart is its ability to blend tradition with creativity. The Honey Bourbon Cask, with its unique aging process and bold flavor profile, exemplifies this approach. It’s a whiskey that appeals to those who value authenticity and aren’t afraid to embrace something new. The limited nature of the release adds an element of exclusivity, making it a prized addition to any collection.
For those looking to experience the taste of Memphis, the Honey Bourbon Cask offers a chance to savor a whiskey that’s as vibrant and soulful as the city itself. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or someone looking to explore a new favorite, this expression delivers a drinking experience that’s both approachable and unforgettable.
How to Get Your Hands on a Bottle
Given the rapid sell-out of last year’s release, whiskey fans are encouraged to act quickly. The Honey Bourbon Cask is available now at BlueNoteBourbon.com and in select stores across the country. For those planning a visit to Memphis, a stop at the distillery’s tasting room or a guided tour provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Blue Note experience while sampling this exceptional bourbon.
Blue Note Bourbon continues to honor the legacy of Memphis blues while crafting whiskeys that resonate with those who appreciate bold flavors and rich stories. The Honey Bourbon Cask is a shining example of this mission, offering a taste of tradition, innovation, and the unmistakable spirit of Tennessee.
