Wheel Horse Whiskey has just unveiled its latest limited-edition Cigar Blend Bourbon for Fall 2024, a unique offering crafted specifically to appeal to whiskey lovers and cigar aficionados alike. This special release, which has already garnered significant attention in the whiskey world, boasts a carefully curated blend of cask finishes and flavors designed to enhance the bourbon’s depth and complexity.
The 2024 Wheel Horse Cigar Blend: An Elevated Edition
This year’s Cigar Blend Bourbon from Wheel Horse builds on the success of last year’s release, which earned an impressive 91 points from Whisky Advocate. For 2024, Wheel Horse has taken their Cigar Blend to the next level with older aging, extended finishing time, and an additional layer of complexity thanks to the introduction of Cognac cask finishing. The bourbon spends its initial 4 to 5 years aging in new charred oak barrels before being finished in a blend of Port, Cognac, Armagnac, and Sherry casks. The additional Cognac finish, a new feature for this release, brings a richer, more nuanced flavor profile, which is crafted to pair perfectly with the earthy and smoky qualities of a cigar.
The intricate finishing process allows the bourbon to absorb diverse notes from each type of cask, resulting in a richly layered spirit. Cognac barrels contribute a smooth fruitiness, Armagnac brings a rustic, earthy sweetness, Sherry imparts a nutty and slightly dry finish, and Port barrels lend a dark, fruity character that complements the bourbon’s naturally warm and spicy flavor profile.
Tasting Notes: A Flavorful Journey
Fans of bourbon and cigars will find much to appreciate in the 2024 Cigar Blend’s aromatic and flavor profiles. Upon opening the bottle, aromas of brandied cherries and the earthy scent of pipe tobacco fill the air, a perfect prelude to the sensory experience that follows.
When tasted, this Cigar Blend unfolds with a lively burst of candied lemon peel and honey, providing a sweet yet citrusy start. As the flavor develops, deeper notes of dark fruits like fig and plum emerge, accompanied by a hint of maple syrup, adding layers of richness and complexity. The finish is long, smooth, and full of subtle yet satisfying notes of toffee, cherry pie filling, and a leathery warmth that complements the smoky flavors often associated with cigars.
The Wheel Horse Distillery Legacy
Crafted at the historic Green River Distilling Company in Owensboro, Kentucky, Wheel Horse Whiskey stands out in a region with a long tradition of bourbon making. Green River, founded in 1885, holds the title as the westernmost point on the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail and is one of the oldest distilleries in the state. Wheel Horse’s attention to detail and commitment to tradition have helped it quickly rise in popularity, attracting whiskey lovers from across the country.
Wheel Horse has earned accolades for more than just its Cigar Blend. Its flagship Bourbon and Rye expressions, both bottled at 101 proof and non-chill filtered, have also been highly rated by critics and received awards in major competitions. In fact, Wheel Horse’s Bourbon was named among Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 Whiskies of 2021 and received a 94-point rating, while both the Bourbon and Rye earned Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Availability and Pricing
For bourbon enthusiasts interested in sampling this unique blend, availability is limited. Only 4,500 bottles of the 2024 Wheel Horse Cigar Blend have been produced, making it a sought-after item for collectors and connoisseurs alike. Priced at a suggested retail price of $37.99, the Cigar Blend is available in select retail locations across more than two dozen states and can also be purchased online through the Wheel Horse Whiskey website.
Final Thoughts
With its 2024 Cigar Blend Bourbon, Wheel Horse Whiskey has created a truly special release that celebrates the art of whiskey-making and the tradition of pairing fine bourbon with cigars. From its thoughtful blend of cask finishes to its bold yet balanced flavors, this year’s Cigar Blend is set to delight fans of both whiskey and cigars. This limited edition showcases Wheel Horse’s dedication to quality and its skill in crafting complex, memorable bourbons at an accessible price.
For more updates on future releases and where to find Wheel Horse Whiskey, enthusiasts can follow the brand on social media or visit their website, www.wheelhorsewhiskey.com.
