Thunder is a small-batch bourbon whiskey with smoked mesquite, made by Cali Distillery in Gardena, California, with Nashville recording artist KC Johns, and bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV).
KC Johns is a veteran of country music, with her own country-rock sound honed on U.S. and international tours and Dollywood stage productions. Thunder is her personal selection: a whiskey that is smooth, with a boldness to match her music. The label carries crossed guitars and a lightning bolt.
The whiskey combines the warmth of bourbon with the smokiness of mesquite and a touch of oak. It opens with a complex aroma of oak, mesquite and sweet caramel, and the palate is smooth and mellow, with vanilla, caramel and spice under a rich, sweet mesquite smoke that recalls barbecue more than peat. The finish is long and lingering.
It makes a fun gift for country music fans and anyone who loves a smoky whiskey with their barbecue.
American whiskey covers a wide range of styles, from bourbon and rye to single malts and light whiskeys, and independent blenders and small producers have made it one of the most exciting categories in spirits.
Mesquite is a hardwood native to the American Southwest and Mexico, prized for the bold, sweet smoke it gives to Texas barbecue.
Bourbon must be made in the United States from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak containers.
A smoky whiskey stands up well to big flavors, so it is a natural partner for grilled and smoked foods.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: Oak, mesquite and sweet caramel.
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Palate: Vanilla, caramel and spice with sweet mesquite smoke.
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Finish: Long and lingering.
Specifications
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Producer: Cali Distillery, Gardena, California
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Collaboration: KC Johns, Nashville recording artist
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Style: Bourbon whiskey with smoked mesquite
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Proof / ABV: 90 proof (45% ABV)
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Region: California, USA
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or on the rocks, or mix a smoky Old Fashioned. It pairs with brisket, ribs or grilled steak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is KC Johns?
A Nashville country-rock recording artist; Thunder is her collaboration with Cali Distillery.
What does the mesquite add?
A sweet, barbecue-style smoke.
What is the proof?
90 proof (45% ABV).
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