A little background

Blood Oath Pact No. 8 is an ultra-premium bourbon released by Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky. The Blood Oath series is a creation by Low Row’s Head Distiller and Master Blender John Rempe.

Pact No. 8 features Blood Oath Pact 8 features a combination of the finest bourbons Rempe could find, including a 14-year ryed bourbon and an 11-year ryed bourbon, as well as an 8-year ryed bourbon finished in Calvados casks. If you’re not familiar with Calvados, it’s is an apple or pear brandy from the Normandy region in northwestern France that is distilled from cider and aged for a minimum of two years in oak casks.

Blood Oath Pact No. 8 is a limited edition, never to be made again release of only 17,000 cases (3-pack). It’s bottled at 98.6 proof/49.3% ABV and has a suggested retail price of $119.99.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Lemon, caramel, pancake syrup, apricot, graham cracker, and a touch of cinnamon.

Palate

Sweet herbal tea, vanilla, lemon, charcoal smoke, and cinnamon.

Finish

A medium long finish with lingering notes of lemon sweet tea, smoke, dark chocolate, and cinnamon spice.

In closing

Every aspect of Blood Oath Pact No. 8 Bourbon is enjoyable. From a rich nose to a viscous palate and long finish. Having spent time in Calvados casks, this Bourbon brought forth some interesting and unique qualities such as charcoal smoke sweet tea, and cinnamon throughout. This is a well balanced Bourbon that I wouldn’t hesitate purchasing if I came across a bottle at retail.

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