Concord grapes | Sweet oak | Honey | Black cherry | Sugared pecans

Stone fruit | Mixed nuts | Raisins | Cinnamon | Nice delivery

Concord grapes | Vanilla | Spice | Ramp up of heat

Old Elk hit the scene hard in 2019 and, in the convening years, has rapidly expanded their single barrel program and special releases to include finishes, blends, and various styles of whiskey. Old Elk Cognac Cask Finish Bourbon is yet another release in their Cask Finish Series, but before you autotune it out as being another finished bourbon among the increasing number of them available in the marketplace, you’d be wise to not jump to conclusions so fast. It’s also worth noting that Old Elk's Finish Series is blended by the company's Master Blender, Melinda Maddox, and her impact is tasted throughout the company’s Cask Finish Series.

Old Elk Cognac Cask Finish Bourbon doesn’t feature a flavor profile much different than many other Cognac finished bourbons with its mix of grape, stone fruit, and raisin. The key with this release is how well it all comes together. The 10 month Cognac finishing seems spot on as it is beautifully tempered throughout its sip. Though the bourbon is contract distilled in conjunction with MGP Distillery and their former Master Distiller Greg Metze, there also seems to be a degree of magic happening with the base bourbon and the Cognac finishing. It’s simply a great tasting finished bourbon that is nicely balanced and nails its Cognac finishing.