Hidden Barn Bourbon has announced the release of its much-anticipated 2024 Madeira Finished Bourbon, known as Perfect Harmony. This is the third installment in the brand’s annual Madeira finish series, crafted to strike an ideal balance between the flavors of the bourbon and the subtle sweetness of Madeira wine infused into the oak barrels.
Image credit: Hidden Barn
Crafting the Perfect Harmony
The creation of Perfect Harmony began with a bourbon distilled by Hidden Barn’s Master Distiller, Royce Neeley. The bourbon’s mash bill consists of 70% corn, 20% rye, and 10% malted barley, aged for six years in charred American oak barrels. For its distinctive finish, the bourbon spent an additional seven months maturing in first-use Madeira casks. This finishing process imbued the bourbon with layers of complexity and an exquisite interplay of flavors.
After finishing in the Madeira casks, the bourbon was open-air vatted for several days. This step allowed oxidation to enhance the flavor profile, helping the batch achieve its harmonious balance. Master Blender Jackie Zykan then selected and blended eight barrels to create the final product. According to Zykan, achieving the perfect blend was a rare moment of precision:
“It’s rare for a blender to create a blend and know instantly when we’ve hit the mark on what we’re trying to achieve,” Zykan explained. “But this year’s Madeira blend is spot on, with the perfect balance of what I was trying to achieve – the right combination between the oak and Madeira make it come full circle.”
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
Perfect Harmony delivers a multi-layered sensory experience. The nose presents inviting aromas of toffee, red fruits, and apple pie, setting the stage for the rich flavors to come. On the palate, drinkers will find a smooth blend of vanilla, raisins, and decadent notes reminiscent of Madeira’s influence. The finish is sweet and warm, tapering off with hints of herbal mint and spices that add depth and character.
Availability and Pricing
This limited-edition bourbon is available for purchase at the Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, Kentucky, and select retailers across Kentucky, Indiana, New York, California, Georgia, Colorado, Nevada, and New Mexico. The suggested retail price is $89.99.
A Tradition of Excellence
Hidden Barn has gained a reputation for its innovative finishes and dedication to crafting high-quality bourbons. The Madeira finish series is a shining example of their commitment to experimenting with unique barrel-aging techniques while staying true to the rich heritage of bourbon-making.
With Perfect Harmony, Hidden Barn invites bourbon enthusiasts to experience a whiskey that artfully combines tradition and innovation. As this third release in the Madeira finish series hits shelves, it’s a must-try for fans of distinctive, well-balanced bourbons.
Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or new to exploring finished bourbons, Perfect Harmony offers a taste that lives up to its name, bringing together sweet, spicy, and oaky notes in one exceptional sip.
