Hancock's President's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey: A Refined Legacy from Buffalo Trace
Experience the subtle elegance and balanced character of Hancock's President's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey, a distinguished and highly sought-after expression from the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery. This unique single barrel bourbon pays homage to Hancock Lee, a pioneer who co-founded the historic Leestown settlement on the banks of the Kentucky River, a site now graced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery itself. Crafted from Buffalo Trace's renowned high-rye Mash Bill #2 (shared with esteemed bourbons like Blanton's and Elmer T. Lee), each bottle of Hancock's offers a distinct, hand-selected profile. Bottled at a gentle 88.9 proof, it's celebrated for its approachable smoothness and intricate, fruit-forward notes, making it a sophisticated sipper and a prized addition to any bourbon collection.
Key Characteristics:
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Single Barrel Selection: Each bottle comes from a single, hand-selected barrel, offering a unique and individual tasting experience.
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Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2: Crafted from the distillery's high-rye mash bill (estimated 12-15% rye), contributing to its distinctive flavor profile.
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Tribute to History: Named in honor of Hancock Lee, a significant figure in Kentucky's distilling heritage.
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Smooth & Approachable Proof: Bottled at 88.9 proof (44.45% ABV), ensuring a mellow yet flavorful experience.
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Deep Amber Hue: Visually appealing with a rich, inviting color that hints at its maturity.
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Collectible & Allocated: Highly desirable due to its quality and limited availability.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Light and sweet, with prominent traces of tropical fruit like mango and papaya, complemented by notes of honey, vanilla, and a delicate touch of oak.
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Palate: Full-bodied yet remarkably smooth, offering a beautiful balance of sweet honey, fresh clover, and a gentle fruitiness (often suggesting berries, particularly strawberries). A subtle dash of baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) provides a pleasant warmth and complexity.
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Finish: Long, warm, and satisfying, leaving a lingering sweetness of fruit, honey, and a hint of refined oak and spice.
Awards & Recognition:
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Silver Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Awards 2016
- Seal of Approval, International Spirit Challenge 1999
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Highly regarded by critics: Jim Murray - 90.5 points, Whiskey Bible 2021
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Recipient of a 90/100 critic rating on Wine-Searcher.
Overall Impression:
Hancock's President's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey stands as a testament to Buffalo Trace's mastery, offering a unique and elegant expression within their esteemed portfolio. Its single barrel nature, combined with the signature high-rye mash bill, ensures a complex and approachable bourbon that beautifully balances sweetness, fruit, and spice. With a legacy rooted in Kentucky's distilling past and a collection of awards underscoring its quality, Hancock's President's Reserve is a treasured find for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a refined, smooth, and genuinely distinctive sipping experience.
