This wild barrel is such a contrast to the other one we bought, I simply couldn't say no. It's so open and lively, it simply jumped out in the tasting and was an immediate yes for me. Nothing more to add, so let's get to tasting. This one is a full two shades darker than the other barrel, clocking a solid tawny (1.4). The nose is absolutely explosive, offering dense raisin-y fruit, sweet crema di mocha, candied nuts, cinnamon apple fritter, and heated aspen. It's like eating an absolutely decadent dessert in an absolutely pristine dry sauna. On the palate, it's rich and sweet with burnt sugar, exotic wood, cooked peaches, pipe tobacco, and vanilla extract. With air, the density and intensity of both the nose and palate continue to smoulder and build. This is simply a massive and powerful whisky that will likely shock some who snag it blindly.
TASTING NOTES
The nose is absolutely explosive, offering dense raisin-y fruit, sweet crema di mocha, candied nuts, cinnamon apple fritter, and heated aspen. It's like eating an absolutely decadent dessert in an absolutely pristine dry sauna. On the palate, it's rich and sweet with burnt sugar, exotic wood, cooked peaches, pipe tobacco, and vanilla extract. With air, the density and intensity of both the nose and palate continue to smolder and build. This is simply a massive and powerful whisky that will likely shock some who snag it blindly.
About Green River
Green River has produced bourbon for over 140 years
Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro, Kentucky, is more than just a distillery; it's a testament to resilience. Its history is a compelling narrative of ambition, disaster, and eventual rebirth, mirroring the very spirit of American whiskey. The distillery's journey from its 19th-century glory to its modern-day revival makes it a must-know story for any bourbon enthusiast.
Once the most widely advertised whiskey in the world, Green River was known for its exceptional quality earning it the title “The Whiskey Without A Headache.” The brand was so highly regarded, Green River served as the official whiskey of the U.S. Marine Hospital for 18 years. After Prohibition, when whiskey was no longer considered medicinal or allowed to make any claims, the brand changed its slogan to “The Whiskey Without Regrets” however is still known to produce some of the finest bourbon in all the land.
Founded in 1885 by John W. McCulloch, the distillery was originally known as the Eagle Distillery before McCulloch purchased it and renamed it. He quickly established the Green River brand as a symbol of quality, and it became a highly sought-after whiskey, even winning international acclaim. The company's slogan, "The Whiskey Without A Headache," spoke to its premium quality and purity in an era when moonshiners and unregulated spirits were common. One of the most legendary stories from this time involves 20 barrels of Green River whiskey being traded for an interest in a Colorado gold mine, an exchange that earned it the nickname "the most expensive spirit ever sold."
But this golden era was short-lived. In 1918, a devastating fire consumed the distillery, destroying its buildings and over 40,000 barrels of whiskey. This disaster, followed by the onset of Prohibition, relegated the Green River brand to history for many years.
After Prohibition ended, the distillery was rebuilt, but the original Green River brand was sold off. The site changed hands multiple times throughout the 20th century, operating under various names and owners, including the Medley family, until it was abandoned in 1993. For over two decades, the once-glorious site sat in disrepair, a ghost of its former self.
The story of its revival began in 2014 when Terressentia Corporation purchased the dilapidated property. They embarked on an ambitious, multi-million dollar renovation, bringing the distillery back to life. They initially operated under the name O.Z. Tyler Distillery, honoring a key figure in their new venture. In 2016, whiskey production resumed on the hallowed grounds for the first time in over 20 years.
In 2020, history came full circle. After years of work, the company secured the rights to the Green River brand and officially renamed the distillery Green River Distilling Co. The rebranding was a momentous occasion, celebrating the return of one of Owensboro's most storied distilleries. The company worked closely with Rob McCulloch, the great-grandson of the original founder, to ensure the new Green River would honor its rich heritage.
Today, Green River Distilling Co. is a vibrant hub on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. . Under the guidance of master distiller Jacob Call, they produce a line of bourbons and rye whiskeys that are gaining national recognition. The distillery offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the "most expensive spirit ever sold" and witness its remarkable journey from ashes to a new golden age.
62.7% ABV
75cl
