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Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon – Cathy’s Cuvee #8

January 20, 2025 · By Matthew Evans · 8.8 / 10
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Whiskey Consensus Score
8.8 /10
Excellent
Score Breakdown
Nose
8.9
Palate
8.7
Finish
8.7
Complexity
8.9
Value
8.7
Consensus Score
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8.8
/ 10
Our Verdict
Excellent

Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon - Cathy's Cuvee #8 was finished in Premier Cru Sauternes, Tawny Port, and Pedro Ximénez barrels.

The Good

  • Availability (until it's sold out)
  • Sweet Flavor Profile
  • Very approachable

The Bad

  • Limited to 268 bottles
Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon - Cathy's Cuvee #8

A little background

Hillrock Distillery’s Solera Aged Bourbon – Cathy’s Cuvée #8 is a testament to the artistry and dedication of one of the world’s few true “field-to-glass” whiskey producers. Meticulously curated by co-founder Cathy Franklin, this third release of the beloved Solera Bourbon showcases the exceptional character of the Hudson Valley through its three exquisite finishes: Premier Cru Sauternes, Tawny Port, and Pedro Ximénez. These finishes harmonize to create a smooth and velvety spirit. This release is limited to 268 bottles, bottled at 92.6 proof, and priced at $115 per 750ml bottle.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Orange, hazelnut, brown bread, candy corn, dark caramel, and sweet peach juice.

Palate

Caramel, cinnamon, campfire smoke, brown sugar, and stone fruit.

Finish

Barrel char, brown sugar, stone fruit, cinnamon, cinnamon, and sweet fruit.

In closing

Hillrock Distillery’s Solera Aged Bourbon – Cathy’s Cuvée #8 presents a delightful balance of sweetness and fruitiness from start to finish. Its nose showcases vibrant orange and peach notes layered with hazelnut and caramel, leading to a palate filled with warm spices, brown sugar, and smoky undertones. The medium-length finish leaves a lingering sweetness accented by barrel char and cinnamon, rounding out the experience. While its approachable proof makes it easy to enjoy, one might wonder how its flavors would shine at full cask strength. Nevertheless, this limited release is a testament to Hillrock’s craftsmanship and remains a worthy addition to their impressive lineup.
 
NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Hillrock Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.

Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon - Cathy's Cuvee #8

92.6 Proof
8.8

Nose

8.9/10

Palate

8.7/10

Finish

8.7/10

Complexity

8.9/10

Value

8.7/10

The Good

  • Availability (until it's sold out)
  • Sweet Flavor Profile
  • Very approachable

The Bad

  • Limited to 268 bottles
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Bourbon Hillrock Review

Every bottle on Whiskey Consensus is evaluated across five categories on a 1–100 scale. The five scores are averaged to produce a final overall score out of 10.

Nose
Aroma, complexity & first impressions
Palate
Flavor, balance & mouthfeel
Finish
Length, character & quality
Complexity
Depth, layers & evolution in the glass
Value
Quality relative to retail price
Score Rating What It Means
9.5 – 10.0ExceptionalOne for the history books
9.0 – 9.4OutstandingA benchmark expression
8.5 – 8.9GreatSeek this bottle out
8.0 – 8.4Very GoodAbove average in every way
7.5 – 7.9GoodWorth your money
7.0 – 7.4Above AverageA solid everyday pour
6.5 – 6.9AverageUnremarkable but drinkable
6.0 – 6.4Below AverageHard to recommend
5.5 – 5.9Hard PassBetter options at this price
0.0 – 5.4AvoidNot worth your time or money
Matthew Evans
About the Author
Matthew Evans
Whiskey Reviewer · Whiskey Consensus  · 538 posts

Matthew is the founder and visionary behind Whiskey Consensus. What began as a project to explore the Instagram platform and share a love for whiskey has evolved into so much more. Professionally, Matthew works in digital marketing as a solutions engineer and sales leader, bringing innovative strategies to the table. Outside of work, Matthew is an avid runner, as well as a car and watch enthusiast. He is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through various volunteer responsibilities.

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