Bourbon Review
Green River Single Barrel
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey — ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Select
The Story
Green River Distilling operates out of a restored 19th-century distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky — a site with deep bourbon history. After decades of dormancy, the distillery came back to life in 2021, and they've been quietly putting out some genuinely impressive whiskey since. This bottle is a store pick from ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, meaning someone at the store selected this specific barrel based on taste and character — which usually means you're getting something a step above the standard single barrel offering. Store picks are one of the best deals in bourbon, and this one makes the case.
Nose, Palate & Finish
Nose
Rich caramel and toasted oak right out of the glass, with a warm wave of vanilla and dried fruit following behind. There's a pleasant corn sweetness characteristic of Kentucky bourbons, along with a subtle nuttiness and a hint of leather. At barrel strength it has presence on the nose without being overwhelming.
Palate
Big and well-structured. The corn sweetness from the nose carries over into a warm, full-bodied entry — brown sugar, butterscotch, and toasted grain. The oak builds through the mid-palate with baking spices and a peppery rye note that provides a nice counterbalance to the sweetness. Well-integrated and expressive.
Finish
Long and warming, with the spice and oak tannins holding on well past the sip. The sweetness fades more quickly, leaving a dry, slightly smoky tail. Satisfying length for the style and price.