Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII

A little background

Created by Ross & Squibb Distillery master distiller Ian Stirsman and his team of master distillers and master blenders, Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII features a medley of three rare bourbons aged between 10 and 17 years. The George Remus Bourbon brand is owned by MGP Ingredients out of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, which is now part of the Luxco brand family.

George Remus is an historical icon that created one of the most intricate, successful bootlegging operations of Prohibition. With the repeal of prohibition by the passage of the 21st Amendment this Repeal Series is a commemoration to a monumental moment in America’s history.

9% of a 17-year-aged bourbon containing 21% rye
24% of a 10-year-aged bourbon comprising 21% rye
67% of a second 10-year-aged bourbon containing 36% rye

Location: Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Proof: 100 / 50% ABV
Retail Price: $99.99

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Gold

Nose

Sweet citrus, bright cherry, vanilla, artificial pancake syrup, and a hint of oak.

Palate

Maple syrup, vanilla, cherry, pecans, lemon taffy, pancake batter, and fresh oak.

Finish

Raspberry, vanilla, cherry, white pepper, oak, and lingering spice.

In closing

In conclusion, Remus Repeal Reserve Series VII offers an enjoyable, if slightly reserved, tasting experience. The nose, though subtle, hints at a pleasant sweetness with notes of cherry, citrus, and vanilla. The palate opens with a delightful burst of maple syrup and pecans, complemented by playful hints of lemon taffy and fresh oak, leading to a smooth, sweet finish of raspberry, spice, and light oak. While the finish has a pleasant, medium-long length, there’s a slight bitterness that brings balance but also a youthful edge. Overall, it’s a flavorful, approachable whiskey with layers worth savoring, though it feels younger than its age statement suggests.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Luxco. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.