Orange peel | Vanilla cream | White pepper | Allspice | Delicate

Bright stone fruit | Navel orange | Dried apricot | Golden raisin | Caramel | Seasoned oak | Brown sugar

Baking spices | Stone fruit | Caramel | Citrusy aftertaste

Rolling Fork Spirits was founded in 2017 by Turner Wathen and Jordan Morris in honor of Kentucky's Rolling Fork Distillery, which was established in 1788. Rolling Fork Spirits specializes in “matching the best imported rums with hand-selected whiskey casks,” True to their interest in reigniting old brands, Wathen and Morris revitalized Bourbon De Luxe, a brand with roots dating back to 1911 with a history that was unearthed by author and Bourbon Historian Brian Haara. For this first release, only three barrels were blended together for a total of 528 bottles.

The bourbon starts with a surprisingly delicate aroma featuring orange peel and vanilla cream that are complemented by white pepper and allspice. On the sip the bourbon really opens up, delivering a wave of flavors that are led by bright stone fruit and a notable naval orange note, which carries over into the finish leaving a long-lasting citrusy aftertaste. It’s by no means a traditional Kentucky bourbon flavor profile, leaning heavily into its fruity citrus side. This makes for a memorable pour, but also one that won’t be for everyone.

I like this bourbon a lot. The label is attention-grabbing, the bourbon has a distinctly unique taste, and the price point makes it accessible in today’s marketplace. Founders Turner Wathen and Jordan Morris are doing great things with their Rolling Fork Rums, and even though this is a sourced bourbon, it’s got me excited for what they plan to do next.