Heaven Hill
The Yellow Rose of Texas 15 year 101 proof 1992 (pre-fire)
Unearth a piece of Kentucky bourbon history with The Yellow Rose of Texas 1992, a magnificent 15-year-old expression bottled at a robust 101 proof. This rare gem offers an exceptionally smooth and complex profile, showcasing the unparalleled depth achieved through decades of careful aging and expert craftsmanship. A true collector's dream, it embodies the golden era of vintage bourbon.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet opens with rich dried dark fruits – fig, date, and plum – interwoven with classic bourbon notes of caramel and deep vanilla bean. Underlying hints of baking spice, particularly cinnamon and nutmeg, emerge, followed by a delicate oak char and a touch of aged leather, suggesting its considerable age and time in quality cooperage. A faint floral note, like dried rose petal, adds an unexpected layer of complexity.
Palate: The entry is full-bodied and exceptionally smooth, coating the palate with a luxurious warmth. The initial sweetness of brown sugar and molasses quickly evolves into a complex interplay of roasted nuts (pecan, almond), dark chocolate, and a prominent dark cherry fruitiness. The 101 proof is beautifully integrated, providing a delightful warmth without harshness. Mid-palate, a wave of seasoned oak, pipe tobacco, and a whisper of anise appear, showcasing its maturity and depth. The mouthfeel is almost chewy, with a velvety texture.
Finish: Long, lingering, and immensely satisfying. The finish echoes the palate with sustained notes of dry oak spice, dark fruit compote, and a mellow, bittersweet chocolate. A peppery warmth slowly fades, leaving behind a delightful sweetness of aged caramel and a subtle, earthy tobacco leaf. The warmth resonates deep in the chest, inviting further contemplation and a desire for another sip.
About the Distillery
Kentucky Reasue Distilling Co. appears to be a smaller or now defunct distiller or bottler that operated out of Bardstown, Kentucky. Products bottled under this label, particularly those from the 1990s, are highly sought after by collectors and aficionados for their historical significance and the quality of the aged stocks they often released, sometimes sourcing from other established Kentucky distilleries.