A little background

Heaven Hill released Fighting Cock as a direct competitor to Wild Turkey 101. Heaven Hill has historically tried to compete with others by putting out products at a higher proof for a lower cost, and this bottle is no exception. Sitting at 103 proof, Fighting Cock comes from a classic Heaven Hill mashbill, made from 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley. Fighting Cock is available in most areas and typically costs around $20 or less.

(Tasted neat from a Wide-bowl Glencairn Glass)

Color

Chestnut

Nose

The very first impression this pour gives is a sweet nutty note-something akin to a butter pecan cookie. After a moment, the more familiar notes of corn, honey, and oak rise from the glass. While there is some ethanol deep in the glass, the nose is rather approachable for something over 100 proof.

Palate

The first thing to notice about the palate on this pour is the mouthfeel. It’s not terribly sticky like others, and yet it’s thick and substantial. Classic bourbon notes of vanilla and caramel present first, with a little hint of young corn and baking spice joining a little later on.

Finish

The finish is medium in length, but due to the simplicity of the palate it doesn’t carry too many flavors. Oak and honey seem to be the dominant notes, although a touch of rye spice is also present toward the end.

In closing

This is a solid, enjoyable pour. The best way to describe it is simple and balanced, because the proof and the flavors seem in perfect harmony, with just the right amount of heat and just the right classic flavors presenting one after the other. At less than $20 this is a pour that will stay on my shelf year after year. It’s not going to blow your socks off, but it’s better than almost every other bottle at the price point.