Big House Bourbon is a new whiskey that was launched in early 2013 by Underdog Spirits. Underdog is also behind Cupcake Vodka and Flipflop Rum, so… there’s that. Rather than producing the bourbon themselves, Big House is sourced from stocks at Lawrenceburg Distillers Indiana (LDI). It’s comprised of 60% corn, 35% rye and 5% malted barley. The spirit is produced with a traditional sour mash fermentation process and then mellowed for six years in new charred American white oak barrels.
On the nose, Big House Bourbon is full of spicy rye grains, oak and sawdust. Underneath that, you’ll find vanilla, some caramel and a few baking spices. Take a sip and those strong oak notes mingle with rich maple and pecans. There’s just a slight hint of dark fruits and chocolate. The long finish brings out lingering notes of creamy vanilla, plus a bit of spicy white pepper.
Overall Big House Bourbon is a pretty interesting dram. The oak seems too brash at the outset, but it mellows considerably toward the finish. It’s a bit raw and could use some extra refinement, but it’s not lacking in flavor. Plus, at a retail price of just $21.99, it’s damn affordable.
Stats:
– 45% Alcohol by Volume
– $21.99
CE Rating: ★★★
