Colin Joliat
if you’re like me, you’ve probably seen Buzzard’s Roost on the shelf and wondered what the story was. Now that they’re releasing a new American Whiskey at a lower price point, it’s time for me to learn.
Buzzard’s Roost is part of the ever-growing population of independent blenders who purchase aged whiskey, throw it in a non-whiskey barrel (sherry, port, etc.), then blend and bottle it. And while many of these start to feel the same, Buzzard’s Roost takes a novel approach to their secondary aging.
Created using a combination of break-through techniques for second barrel maturation including 18-month-seasoned oak barrels for intensified flavors and exclusive use of Char #1 over very specific toast levels to coax complex flavors from each barrel.
From Buzzard’s Roost
Char #1 and toasting aren’t necessarily better or worse than anything else, but at least they’re a calling card for the brand, creating a level of consistency while still allowing for variety.
Buzzard’s Roost American Whiskey
Buzzard’s Roost American Whiskey starts as one of MGP’s high-rye bourbons (75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley) and is aged at least 3 years. The finish used differentiates this new offering even further. Instead of using barrels that have never held whiskey, Buzzards Roost picked from their stockpile of barrels that they’ve previously used.
“We had great fun creating our first American Whiskey. We had our pick of our own whiskey-soaked barrels and the flavor profiles that each was designed for. We think we’ve come up with something that’s delicious as a sipper and will elevate any whiskey cocktail .”
Buzzard’s Roost Master Blender Jason Brauner
The usage of second-fill barrels has a few interesting effects. It saves money by using barrels more than once, creates new flavor profiles from multiple liquids, and prevents it from being called bourbon.
The price point is $50, down from Buzzard’s Roost’s average offering of around $75. Their primary target is on-premise, industry speak for bars, which is always an excellent way to try it before you buy it. Or at least before you buy all of it.
American Whiskey tasting notes
- Nose: Roasted almonds, cola, cinnamon, orange zest
- Palate: Vanilla wafers, roasted almonds, cinnamon candies, orange soda, herbal pipe tobacco, black pepper.
- Finish: Long, warm, and spicy. Cinnamon, pepper, light oak.
