Hillrock Estate Solera Aged Bourbon

A little background

Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon Whiskey is aged in an untraditional fashion for aging bourbon. Hillrock describes the Solera process as such, “Solera aging involves a pyramid of barrels where a small portion of whiskey is removed periodically from the lowest tier of barrels and an equal measure of new whiskey is added to the top barrels. No barrel in the Solera is ever emptied, and over time, the older whiskey in the Solera mingles with younger whiskies to create unmatched depth and complexity.”

Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon is then finished in 20 year old Oloroso Sherry casks, giving it unique flavors and depth. This whiskey is non age-stated and is listed at $90 MSRP.

(Tasted neat from a Halo Glass)

Color

Dark Rust

Nose

Figs and dark fruits dominate the nose. A subtle vanilla undertone is present, giving it a more rounded sweetness. It is obvious to me just from the nose that this bourbon was finished in Oloroso Sherry casks, as the nose is reminiscent of many Sherry cask finished scotches that I have had. Rye spice gives it the punch it needs to become a pleasant, full nose.

Palate

Figs, rye spice, and roasted nuts are very forward on the palate. I really enjoy the way that the sweetness, savory flavor, and spice all balance each other out. The mouthfeel is medium-thick, about exactly what I was expecting from this whiskey. A orange peel type of citrus note is present on the mid-palate, as well as the obvious sherry. The complexity of flavors is very nice, and overall the palate is forward and complex given the proof.

Finish

The finish is medium in length, and contains the orange rind flavor as well as the earthy fig notes.

In conclusion

This is a very solid whiskey. I really enjoyed it, and it gave me more than what most whiskies give me at this proof. That being said, $90 does seem to be on the higher side. My guess is the elevated price comes from the Solera aging method and Oloroso Sherry cask finishing, which can’t be a cheap process. The nose and tasting notes on this bourbon are delicious, but is it worth the price tag? Ehhh that’s for you to decide. I would say yes, based on the great flavors and unique processes that have gone into making this bourbon. Finished bourbons are hard to get right, but Hillrock has it figured out!