High Bank Whiskey War Cigar Cask Review Batch 4

A little background

High Bank Distillery in Columbus, Ohio, carries a legacy as rich as the city itself. Founded with the same spirit of uncompromised quality that defined the choice of Columbus’ location, High Bank is nestled in an area with deep historical significance. Just as the capital was strategically placed on the High Bank opposite Franklinton to avoid flooding risks, High Bank Distillery selects each ingredient with meticulous care to create exceptional spirits, cocktails, and culinary delights. The story of High Bank began with a fateful motorcycle ride in 2006 when Adam Hines and his father discovered the world of whiskey aging in the hills of Kentucky and Tennessee. This journey sparked Adam’s passion for brown spirits, ultimately leading him to co-found High Bank Distillery and become Ohio’s most decorated Master Distiller.

Today, that same spirit of exploration is alive in every bottle of High Bank whiskey, including their acclaimed Whiskey War Cigar Cask Batch 4. Whiskey War Cigar Cask Batch 4 is High Bank’s signature Whiskey War Barrel Proof, aged at least 5 years according to High Bank, featuring a rye-heavy mash bill, and given a second maturation in Brazilian Amburana barrels. High Bank Distillery Whiskey War Cigar Cask Batch 4 is bottled at 118.44 proof and has a retail price of $100 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Banana, all-spice, cinnamon, citrus , vanilla.

Palate

Tobacco, allspice, apple pie, cinnamon, leather.

Finish

Campfire smoke, pineapple, baking spice, oak, vanilla, dried fruit.

In closing

High Bank Whiskey War Cigar Cask Batch 4 is an exceptional and complex whiskey that stands out due to its innovative finishing process. The nose immediately captivates with banana, tropical fruit, and coconut, setting the stage for an explosive palate. It delivers a luxurious, viscous mouthfeel combined with bold, layered flavors of tobacco, cinnamon graham cracker, and warm apple pie. The finish is long and satisfying, culminating in notes of campfire smoke and dry, toasted oak, balanced without overwhelming heat. Its balanced sweetness and spice make it a versatile pour, delivering complexity and high proof intensity. While the limited availability is a clear drawback for enthusiasts (story of our lives), the unique profile makes it a sought-after and rewarding pour for those who appreciate innovation in their glass.

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