Experience a pour of history with Derby Rose Kentucky Straight Bourbon 1990, a rare charcoal-filtered gem. Bottled at a robust 101 proof, this is a meticulously crafted, rich old Kentucky bourbon offering unparalleled depth and an incredibly smooth finish. A true collector's exquisite sip.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated initial burst of charred oak and sweet vanilla, quickly followed by warm baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Hints of dried stone fruit – apricot and fig – emerge, intertwined with a subtle leather and tobacco note, suggesting age and refinement. A delicate whisper of orange peel and toasted corn provides a classic Kentucky bourbon foundation.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and full-bodied despite its 101 proof. It greets with a rich caramel and butterscotch sweetness, balanced by a gentle peppery spice that tingles the mid-palate. Dark chocolate and espresso notes develop, mingling with dried cherry and a touch of ripe plum. The promised 'charcoal filtered' aspect manifests as a velvety texture and a clean, almost polished mouthfeel, allowing the complex flavors to shine without harshness.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and satisfying, warming the chest with a lingering sweetness of brown sugar and toffee. The oak influence gracefully recedes, leaving behind nuanced notes of roasted nuts, a touch of pipe tobacco, and a final, faint echo of dark fruit. It's clean, elegant, and invites contemplation, a true sign of a well-aged and expertly crafted bourbon.

About the Distillery

The Derby Rose Distilling Company, though perhaps less widely known today, was part of Kentucky's rich post-Prohibition bourbon landscape. They were dedicated to producing traditional Kentucky Straight Bourbon, likely adhering to time-honored methods. The 'Rare Old Kentucky Bourbon' designation suggests a commitment to quality and often implies that the distillate was carefully selected for its superior characteristics, a hallmark of distilleries focused on craftsmanship over mass production during that era.