Rich caramel | Brown sugar | Charred oak | Cinnamon spice | Baking spice | Hints of nutmeg | Spiced pumpkin pie | Aged leather | Rich & intoxicating

Sharp rye spice | Brown sugar | Baked spiced apple | Cinnamon | Hints of dry oak | Cherries | Dark fruits | The proof shines through

Burst of spice | Dry oak | Light leather | Dry cinnamon | Lingering dry heat

King of Kentucky is back with its fourth annual edition. This year's release happens to be the highest bottle count ever for the single barrel bourbon, coming in at 2,700 bottles originating from 33 barrels with an average yield of only 30%. King of Kentucky has impressed us in the past with the 2018, 2019, and 2020 releases, each making our short list of “whiskeys of the year.”

This year's release is no different than past releases in terms of Brown-Forman knocking it out of the park. The nose is the star of the show, providing a depth that few bourbons are able to match. It’s full of rich flavors and depth that utilize every one of the 14 years the bourbon spent in a barrel to its advantage. The palate is nearly as delectable, highlighting various spices and fruits, with its 130 proof punching through and reminding you of its presence throughout. Finally, the sip ends on a dry flavor profile that is encapsulated with an ever-present heat. Even with a low bottle count, it’s a shame that King of Kentucky isn’t a nationwide release, since more people throughout the country should have an opportunity to try this. King of Kentucky can go toe to toe with the majority of limited editions released in 2021 and is a treat for all of those who get to try it.

The bourbon being reviewed comes from barrel number 7.