Breckenridge Port Cask Finish Whiskey

A little background

Founded in 2008, Breckenridge Distillery calls themselves the “World’s Highest Distillery” and use water from Rocky Mountain snowmelt in their blending and distilling. Breckenridge Port Cask Finish Whiskey starts as their bourbon whiskey that is then finished for an undisclosed amount of time in 59-gallon Tawny Port casks of various ages. It’s bottled at 90 proof and carries a retail price of $69.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn.)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

The whiskies aromas are almost completely covered by the Port finishing. Dusty raisins, fermented grapes, and a light maple syrup shows up after several minutes in the glass. 

Palate

Just like on the nose, the Port dominants the taste, which some may really like. Unfortunately it’s just not in my wheelhouse. 

Finish

Barrel tannins and cocoa take over for a somewhat surprisingly long finish that is the highlight of the experience. 

In closing

For my taste, the cask finishing is a little heavy handed on this one. Fermented grape notes dominate the classic bourbon notes that I love so much.  Fortunately, the bourbon exerts itself on the finish.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Breckenridge.  We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review their Port Cask Finished Whiskey.