SHENK'S Homestead 2018

Shenk’s Homestead Distillery Sour Mash Whiskey honors the legacy of historic American whiskey figure John Shenk, who in 1753 founded a distillery that was to become known as Michter’s in the 20th Century. It is made in Kentucky according to the traditional Sour Mash process whereby a portion of the previously distilled whiskey mash (referred to as “setback”) is added into the next batch. This full-bodied small batch whiskey is 91.2 proof.

The 2018 Shenk’s is a sour mash whiskey with a rye-forward profile. Its rich characteristics are due to a portion of the whiskey being finished in 24 month air dried French Oak Barrels that were specially toasted to add to the unique finish and rich mouthfeel of the whiskey.

TASTING NOTES

COLOR: This bourbon displays a rich, deep amber hue, with golden hues that elegantly reflect the light. Its intense yet luminous color suggests well-achieved maturity, evoking a sense of warmth and depth. The sparkle in the glass speaks of a careful aging process, while its opacity invites you to delve into a complex and refined sensory experience.

NOSE: As you approach the nose, the whiskey displays a captivating mix of aromas. First, there is a strong presence of aged oak, with its dry and lightly toasted notes, merging with the softness of freshly baked vanilla. As it opens up in the air, more complex layers emerge: a light hint of caramel, reminiscent of burnt dulce de leche, is intertwined with a subtle hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. There are also notes of dried fruits, such as raisins and apricots, which bring a sweet softness to the profile. The combination of these aromas makes the nose a sophisticated and promising invitation for what is to come.

TASTE: On the palate, Shenk's Homestead 2018 presents itself with a smooth but firm entry, which quickly becomes a rich and enveloping experience. The flavors of caramel and honey mingle with the subtle heat of the alcohol, creating a sensation of sweetness that does not overshadow the structure of the whiskey. As the liquid travels across the palate, notes of ripe fruit emerge, especially dried peaches and a slight acidity of prunes, which provide a refreshing contrast. The oak, well present, unfolds in a base of spices such as cinnamon, clove and a subtle touch of black pepper, which add complexity without overpowering the initial smoothness. The texture is smooth but dense, with a creamy sensation that lingers in the mouth. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a persistent trace of bitter cocoa, nuttiness and a slight toasted aftertaste. The complexity of its flavors lingers, inviting deep reflection and to enjoy each sip calmly.