A little background

Brothers Stephen and Paul Beam (look up the last name if you don’t know it) decided to follow in the footsteps of their ancestors and opened the Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky in 2010. Since that time, they’ve work to continue their family tradition by producing a variety of spirits and some of the brands that made their name famous, including Yellowstone Bourbon. In early 2022, Limestone Branch announced the release of their oldest distilled product to date, a 6-year Kentucky straight bourbon that is said to be made according to Stephen Beam’s original Family recipe passed down for generations. This limited release is bottled at 100 proof and retails for $70.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Orange Amber

Nose

The nose is somewhat surprising, as it presents a more savory aroma consisting of earthy tobacco, raw peanuts, and a hint of brown sugar. With time I found black licorice, seasoned oak, and some corn bread sweetness developing.

Palate

This bourbon is somewhat subtle up front, but it quickly provides a noticeable fresh-cracked black pepper punch that mingles with the earthy tobacco note that transitions from the nose. More sweet notes begin to develop, particularly cornbread, brown sugar, and almond syrup, but the spice really dominates on the palate.

Finish

The finish is medium-long with notes of milk chocolate, roasted peanuts, some green citrus influence, and some lingering peppery spice. The oak is also more prominent on the finish, as the tannins create a somewhat astringent mouthfeel.

In closing

I am pleasantly surprised by the overall profile of this 6-year bourbon from Limestone Branch. It presents a unique combination of flavors that provides a fun challenge and a smooth drinking experience. At times I though the pour lacked the cohesiveness of an older, more developed bourbon, but overall I think this bottle clearly demonstrates that the future will be bright for Limestone Branch.

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