In a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Wheel Horse Whiskey proudly introduces its latest masterpiece, the Wheel Horse Cigar Blend Bourbon. This limited-edition elixir emerges from the hallowed grounds of the historic Green River Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky, a venerable establishment that has been distilling liquid gold since its founding in 1885.
Wheel Horse Unveils Exclusive Cigar Blend Bourbon - Image Credit: Wheel Horse
A mere 3,000 bottles of this exquisite libation are available, with a tantalizing online release accessible to aficionados across most states. For those seeking a touch of rarity, select shelves also bear witness to the presence of this limited offering.
Crafted from a mash bill that intricately weaves together 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, the Cigar Blend Bourbon is a testament to Wheel Horse's unwavering commitment to quality. This elixir embarks on a journey through time, aging gracefully for over four years in the sanctuary of its original oak barrels at the Green River Distillery. But the alchemy doesn't stop there.
In a stroke of ingenuity, the bourbon undergoes a metamorphosis during an additional six to eight months of maturation, a period in which it luxuriates in a marriage of Sherry, Port, and Armagnac casks. The result is a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate, offering a sensory experience that transcends the ordinary.
Terry Lozoff, the Spirits Director at Latitude Beverage, the proud custodians of the Wheel Horse brand, sheds light on the term 'Cigar Blend.' "While there is no official definition," he notes, "in American whiskey, Cigar Blends have typically involved a combination of finishes, with Armagnac and/or Cognac being a favored choice." The Wheel Horse Cigar Blend Bourbon, Lozoff reveals, uses Armagnac-finished Bourbon as its base, enriched by a judicious blend of Sherry and Port-finished Bourbons, resulting in a profile that is nothing short of a masterpiece.
This exceptional expression, bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV) and presented without chill filtration, stands as a beacon of Wheel Horse Whiskey's commitment to providing enthusiasts with an affordable luxury. Priced at around $40 per bottle, it beckons those who seek a harmonious marriage of quality and value.
As the golden elixir cascades into the glass, the nose is greeted by a tapestry of dark fruit aromas, cherry, and plum, intertwined with a delicate undertone of tobacco. The palate unfolds a ballet of flavors – sweet brown sugar pirouettes with rich coffee, unveiling earthy notes of leather and dark chocolate. The grand finale, a lingering finish, unveils complex layers of mulling spice and roasted almonds, leaving an indelible mark on the senses.
Crafted at the iconic Green River Distillery, the Wheel Horse Cigar Blend Bourbon joins the illustrious Wheel Horse family, which includes the brand's flagship 101 proof Rye and Bourbon. These expressions have rightfully earned their place in the pantheon of excellence, securing accolades such as the Top 20 Whiskies of 2021 and a resounding 94-point rating from Whisky Advocate for the Bourbon, not to mention Gold Medals for both Bourbon and Rye at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Wheel Horse whiskies, a beacon of Kentucky's rich distilling heritage, are now available in retail locations spanning more than two dozen states and conveniently accessible nationwide through www.wheelhorsewhiskey.com. For those who seek not just a drink but an experience, the Wheel Horse Cigar Blend Bourbon beckons—a rare symphony of flavor and tradition captured in every bottle.
