King of Kentucky Bourbon Seventh Edition 16-Year old Review

King of Kentucky Bourbon Seventh Edition Review

A little background

The King of Kentucky 7th Edition marks another momentous release from Brown-Forman, celebrating the brand’s revival with a rare 16-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This ultra-premium, single-barrel expression has captured bourbon enthusiasts since its reintroduction in 2018.

Originally established in 1881, King of Kentucky was acquired by Brown-Forman in 1936, where it became a blended whiskey until its discontinuation in 1968. Resurrected in 2018, each annual edition pays homage to this legacy. The 2024 release will feature a meticulously crafted, barrel-strength bourbon with just 5,100 bottles available—primarily in Kentucky, but also in select states across the U.S.

Every bottle is handsomely encased and hand-numbered, a testament to the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail overseen by Master Distiller Chris Morris. This year’s edition draws from two lots of barrels aged since 2007 in Brown-Forman’s historic warehouses, offering a unique sensory experience that highlights the brand’s enduring legacy and commitment to quality. The 7th Edition of King of Kentucky is bottled as a single barrel at 130.4 Proof. The sample used from this review came from barrel No. 10.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Burnished

Nose

Strawberries and cream, pretzels, orange chiffon, milk chocolate cake frosting, whipped cream, gingerbread, golden cream soda, and oak.

Palate

Brown sugar, limeade, butterscotch, toffee, bitter tea, dates, cherry, jelly, leather, cinnamon, and molasses.

Finish

Dried oak, dried coffee grounds, bitter dark chocolate, double mint gum, cinnamon, and a hint of dried cherry.

In closing

In conclusion, King of Kentucky 7th Edition is a masterclass in balanced complexity and rich character, crafted with meticulous care. From the fruity, layered nose with hints of strawberries, cream, and spice, to the juicy, full-bodied palate that melds brown sugar, citrus, and leather, this bourbon reveals its intricate personality at every sip. The dry finish, with notes of oak, dark chocolate, and a touch of cherry, provides a satisfying depth that lingers. This year’s release stands out with its exceptional integration of alcohol and nuanced flavors, all enveloped by the oaky warmth of its aged cask—a truly remarkable experience for any whiskey aficionado.
 

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

King of Kentucky Bourbon Seventh Edition Review

130.4 Proof
King of Kentucky Bourbon Seventh Edition
9.3

Nose

 9.4/10

Palate

 9.3/10

Finish

 9.3/10

Complexity

 9.4/10

Value

 9.2/10

The Good

  • Expressive Nose
  • Juicy Palate
  • Complex

The Bad

  • Limited
  • Pricey
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Matthew Evans

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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