Liberty Pole Spirits Bourbon Review

Liberty Pole Spirits, situated in the rolling hills of Washington, PA, takes their history seriously. Located near the events of the late 18th century Whiskey Rebellion, the distiller works toward making Western Pennsylvania a seat of whiskey production again as it once was. (They also don’t hide their feelings for Alexander Hamilton – which you’ll notice if you have the chance to visit the distillery.) Whiskey Rising also reviewed Liberty Pole Peated Rye, but today is the Liberty Pole Spirits Bourbon review.

Liberty Pole’s Bourbon is listed as one of their flagship products. Per the product description, the mash bill consists of 57% Bloody Butcher Corn, 18% Red Winter Wheat, and 25% Six-Row Distillers Malt. Aging time is listed as 19 to 24 months. However, my bottle (batch #27) states a minimum of 21 months. Proof rounds out at 92 (46% ABV). With the pleasantries out of the way, lets conduct Liberty Pole Spirits Bourbon review!

Appearance and Bottle

The bourbon portrays a burnt amber coloring with a ruddy theme running through it. Swirling it around in the glass allows it to coat the sides and form thick beads that slowly crawl down – nice legs overall. The bottle itself evinces the theme this distillery is going for – a young lady in late 18th century garb with script to match – the rebellious nature couched in her stance and eyes. A young country still trying to figure itself out.

Nose

Lifting the glass to the nose immediately cuts a path through anything that was previously there, amplifying the drying effect the whiskey contains. Initially, this effect somewhat overpowers the underlying tones. Eventually, a nutmeg hint starts to pop out. However, it quickly becomes apparent that leather is primary on the nose, and this note settles into the nose for a lengthy stay. Continuing through the leather, notes of hidden oats and cigars rolls around.

Palate

The drying effect on the nose gives way to a warming and coating effect in the mouth, that plays with slightly bitter turns. The leather continues to initially wrap the flavor in. Although it does appear this whiskey may remain somewhat hidebound, over time and through continual playing some spices trickle through in the form of anise and slight cinnamon. Throughout the entire experience, an earthy wood-resin pervades. This final piece sets nicely even if it is somewhat difficult to place.

Finish

The earthiness of the palate transmogrifies into a smoky sensation at the back of the mouth and entrance to the throat. Continually and quickly, it surprisingly ends in an earthy but prominently ginger taste that lingers just long enough to savor but not to wear out its welcome.

Drinkability

This is where this whiskey really allows itself to open up and show off. A sprinkle of water or a slightly melted ice cube unlocks and promotes the flavors that otherwise lurk beneath, allowing a sweeter version out into the world. Would work for an every day sip, or a special treat. Its easy to imagine sitting in a woodland setting near a river drinking this one.

Food Pairing

The earthiness this drink exudes along with its late 18th century theme calls venison or rabbit to mind, perhaps cooked with some wild onions and mushrooms.

Facial Hair Rating

This whiskey receives the French Fork look. While rugged enough to hunt game in the Appalachians, it doesn’t go full mountain man. May fight the government over taxes, however.

Overall

In conclusion, this is a fun whiskey that presents some complexity. Simultaneously, it sticks to the theme that it attempts from the beginning. Allowing the flavors some room to work and display different angles goes a long way, and provides a somewhat unique overall experience.

Final Grade: A-

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