Cedar Ridge Iowa Bourbon Whiskey

A little background

Cedar Ridge was founded in 2005 and is the first licensed distillery in Iowa since prohibition. In 2010 Cedar Ridge released their first batch of whiskey. The Quint family has farmed and distilled whiskey for generations. James Quint founded this distillery because he believed it was time for Iowa to share their homegrown bourbon whiskey with the world. Cedar Ridge Iowa Bourbon Whiskey is aged for a minimum of three years. The mashbill is comprised of 74% corn, 14% malted rye, and 12% 2-row malted barley. MSRP is approximately $40 and the spirit is bottled at 80 proof.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Gold

Nose

The nose is light and spicy. Corn emanates from the glass. There is an alcohol note present as well.

Palate

The first sip has a medium viscosity and latent heat. A faint corn note was present. The second sip is effervescent with notes of oak, pepper, and corn. A slight tingling is present on the middle sides of the tongue. The third sip has a faint vanilla note that is accompanied by oak spice and corn.

Finish

The finish is medium to long and spicy. The most prominent notes are corn, oak, spice, and faint hints of vanilla.

In closing

The Cedar Ridge Bourbon Whiskey is approachable at 80 proof. The mashbill has 74% corn, and it is evident on the nose and palate. The spirit has a medium viscosity but lacks complexity on the nose and palate. If you are a fan of corn and enjoy younger whiskey, then this is the bottle for you.

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