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 When does the quantity of barrels become excessive in the process of aging whiskey? This subject has been discussed previously, particularly concerning
 Johnson’s Reserve
 A single malt Scotch that underwent finishing in an impressive 33 distinct types of casks following its primary aging process. In contrast, the newly released Special Reserve bourbon from Blue Note features only ten varying cask finishes, which might seem less extensive but surprisingly complements the flavor profile effectively without overpowering the taste buds.


 Blue Note is a company that does not operate its own distillery; rather, it is owned by B.R. Distilling Company. This means that instead of producing their spirits themselves, they obtain whiskey from external producers. Notably, Blue Note collaborates with Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBC). It’s worth mentioning that BBC has recently relaunched its contract distillation business under the new name Lofted Spirits.


 The bourbon used for the Special Reserve was probably acquired partly from other distilleries by BBC. This is evident considering the age range of the liquid, spanning between four to 19 years old. The blend includes three distinct mash bills from Kentucky and Tennessee: one has approximately 70% corn along with slightly more than 20% rye; another also contains about 70% corn but just under 20% rye; and finally, there’s one made up of 84% corn, 8% rye, and an additional 8% malted barley.


 
 
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 The intricate second aging process is the key attraction of this new bourbon. The three Tennessee Bourbons, along with their specific blending ratios and finishing barrels, are detailed below:

<ul>
 <li>
 Five percent 19-year-old whiskey aged in a cognac cask
 </li>
 <li>
 Five percent 11-year-old whiskey matured in a port cask
 </li>
 <li>
 Four percent twelve-year-old whiskey matured in a sherry cask
 </li>
</ul>

 Next up are the Kentucky Bourbons:

<ul>
 <li>
 Eighteen percent of this blend consists of six-year-old whiskey matured in a Madeira wine cask.
 </li>
 <li>
 17 percent of four-year-old whiskey aged in an apricot brandy barrel
 </li>
 <li>
 15 percent four-year-old whiskey matured in a vanilla cognac barrel
 </li>
 <li>
 Thirteen percent four-year-old whiskey matured in an amontillado sherry cask
 </li>
 <li>
 10 percent six-year-old whiskey matured in a vino de naranja cask
 </li>
 <li>
 10 percent four-year-old whiskey matured in a triple sec cask
 </li>
 <li>
 Three percent five-year-old whiskey aged in a Madeira wine cask
 </li>
</ul>

 That's quite complex, however, pay attention to the significant presence of Madeira and brandy cask elements, which happen to be among the most recent whiskies included in the mix. This combination ultimately creates a highly flavorful and surprisingly well-balanced new blend of straight bourbon whiskeys.


 Kudos go to the Blue Note blending crew for harmonizing these possibly contrasting tastes. Despite the blend, the essence of the bourbon remains prominent, allowing its nutty, pencil shavings-like qualities to stand out. This whiskey offers a medley of fruitiness and spice, featuring hints of maple syrup, cinnamon, charred orange peel, along with a touch of tart grape-flavored Jolly Ranchers. Packing 116.3 proof, it delivers a pleasant warmth right at the tail end.


 The Blue Note Special Reserve is a restricted edition featuring roughly 2,000 bottles being released this month for $225 each. The previous year’s version, aged exclusively in six distinct kinds of barrels, can still be found on the resale market; thus, secure a bottle from last year to contrast flavors should you manage to find one.


 
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When does the quantity of barrels become excessive in the process of aging whiskey? This subject has been discussed previously, particularly concerning Johnson’s Reserve A single malt Scotch that …