Sipp’n Corn Tasting Notes: Yellowstone Limited Edition, 2020

Great things continue to happen in Lebanon, Kentucky at Limestone Branch Distillery.  It seems like forever ago when I first met Steve Beam, they had about 50 barrels of aging bourbon, and the gift shop sold a dozen flavors of sweet “moonshine.”  In recent years, we’ve had a regular supply of the standard expression of Yellowstone, along with Minor Case straight rye whiskey finished in Sherry casks, and each fall a limited release, always showcasing some innovative twist.

This year, Limestone Branch finished a seven-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey in French Armagnac casks.  Some other brands have toyed with Armagnac cask finishing, but this Yellowstone—even at relatively low limited edition distribution numbers—is probably the most ambitious effort yet.

Yellowstone Limited Edition Tasting Notes

Bourbon:	Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Armagnac casks
Distillery:	Undisclosed
Age:	7 years
ABV:	50.5% (101 proof)
Cost:	$100.00

Appearance:
Light amber gold.

Nose:
Unexpected earthiness with a lot of other aromas swirling around:  sweet floral scents, botanicals, clove, tea leaves, licorice, and a melon note that kept me coming back.  I was digging hard for traditional caramel and vanilla, but other than rye spice that made it through, the Armagnac really took over.

Taste:
Seemingly low ABV led squarely by rye grain and Armagnac.  There’s also toffee, orange cream, and melon again to with a touch of oakiness. 

Finish:
Short, all-sweet fruity finish with warmth that lingers a bit longer. 

Bottom Line
Limestone Branch has proven their skill at barrel finishing time after time, and I give them props for managing the Armagnac influence to create this unique whiskey worthy of carrying its limited edition title.

Disclaimer: The brand managers kindly
sent me a sample for this review,
without any strings attached. 
Thank you.