Fresh oak | Vanilla | Caramel | Faint

Vanilla | White peppercorn | Oak | Rye spice | Caramel | Watery mouthfeel

Vanilla | Caramel | Dash of tingly rye spice | Short

Originally named after a judge in Bardstown, Kentucky, Silas Jones Bourbon has a long history that most bourbon drinkers may be surprised to hear. Originally distilled by the Tom Moore Distillery in the early 1900s, the brand followed the sale of the distillery to the Barton organization in 1944. Eventually, that turned into the Barton Distillery, which is now owned by Sazerac.

In its current form, Silas Jones Bourbon is bottled by Brookstone Distilling, which is one of Sazerac Company’s many subsidiaries. While it’s sourced from an unknown distillery, one can make the presumption that it is one owned by Sazerac. Considered a “bottom shelf” bourbon due to the fact that it’s often found on the bottom shelf of a liquor store, little is known about this incarnation of Silas Jones Bourbon.

Being lower in proof doesn’t automatically mean that a bourbon will have a poor showing. In the case of Silas Jones Bourbon, while the proof certainly doesn’t help its cause, its thin flavor profile shoulders much of the blame. The sip starts with classic faint scents, which transition to a midpoint that delivers a watery mouthfeel of additional classic notes. The finish is short and to the point, wrapping things up quickly.

For those looking for a cheap, passable bourbon to use in bourbon and Cokes, Silas Jones Bourbon will check the box for you. If you’re hoping to find your next cheap daily sipper, you’ll need to look elsewhere. While the bottom shelf category is crowded, there are a few standouts, such as Evan Williams Bottled in Bond, that will better suit your needs.