Yellowstone Special Finishes Collection Toasted Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Wow, Kentucky bourbon is well known for a reason. Yellowstone Toasted was sweet and drinkable, but also complex with a long aftertaste. I think this could be enjoyed whether you just started getting into whiskies or already have a developed palate.

I didn't have high expectations for day 10 Yellowstone Toasted because I consider stave finished whiskeys to be a bit of a gimmick (like Makers 46). This one has me reconsidering my position on them.
The nose is a rich, nutty bouquet with a touch of carameled toffee served on a light golden colored saucer.
The initial sip has a hint of cinnamon (something I find off putting in whiskey because of Fireball) and coats the tongue. It is well balanced with no burn despite the 100 proof.
This would pair well with a cigar like a bold maduro. I definitely got the cocoa and tanins from the black tea profile. Water didn't do anything for the nose imo, but after a drop or two I liked how it brought out a bit of the white pepper spice. It even introduced some fruit elements that weren't on the pictogram.
I would keep this bottle for a neat sipper but agree with Jake's suggestion this would enhance a cocktail by introducing subtle differences in flavor.
The Flaviar price of $45 is consistent with retail and this would be high value for those of you buying at the 15% discount. I gave it an 8. Prost!

4.2/5

Complex whiskey with a nice long finish. Less sweet than many of the other bourbons we've had in the 2024 Flaviar Advent Calendar, but that is what I prefer.

Runs hot, but layers flavors that work well with this quality-- cinnamon, tobacco, and a hint of leather for me rather than black tea. Very unusual for a 4 year American whiskey from virgin oak casks without the addition of more traditional finishing casks (sherry) and a 10+ year aging period. The leather tannins are almost entirely on the sides of the tongue, with little of that earthy aged scent you might find from older whiskies & Scotch. Pretty amazing stuff that I absolutely enjoyed.

I do agree that this might make an excellent cocktail-- Boulevardier would be my first go.

Man, this advent calendar is helping me learn a lot about what I like. Apparently my wife and I are both Kentucky bourbon fans because our highest ratings have been for this one and the Heaven Hill from day one. Loved today’s selection! Definitely buying the advent calendar again next year.

This is a cigar whiskey! The tobacco and nutty essence smells like we are waking into our favorite cigar lounge. Probably served perfect on the rocks for me! Very enjoyable.