Hardin's Creek Colonel James B. Beam is a two-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon from James B. Beam Distilling Co., bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV).
Using a longer fermentation and taking the spirit off the still at a lower distillation proof means Colonel James B. Beam only needs to age two years to achieve a depth of flavour that rivals more mature bourbons: proof that quality is not defined solely by time.
Amber gold in colour, it offers robust vanilla and caramel on the nose, deep and complex vanilla, nut and oak flavours on the palate, and a long, full finish.
A thought-provoking young bourbon from the Beam family, it makes a fine gift.
Sip it neat or with a drop of water.
Bourbon must be made in the United States from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak containers, and straight bourbon must be aged at least two years. Those rules give bourbon its characteristic sweetness, with caramel and vanilla drawn from the charred barrels.
Kentucky straight bourbon must be made in Kentucky from a mash of at least 51% corn, aged at least two years in new charred oak and bottled with nothing added but water.
Distilling to a lower proof leaves more of the grain's flavour compounds in the spirit, and a longer fermentation builds more fruity esters, both of which add depth that would otherwise take years in the barrel.
At 108 proof, a few drops of water open up the vanilla and caramel.
The Colonel is named for James B. Beam, who rebuilt the family distillery after Prohibition.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Robust vanilla and caramel.
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Palate: Vanilla, nuts and oak.
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Finish: Long and full.
Specifications
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Producer: James B. Beam Distilling Co. (Hardin's Creek)
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Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
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Age: 2 years
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Proof / ABV: 108 proof (54% ABV)
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Region: Kentucky, United States
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a little water. It pairs with pecans, caramel desserts or barbecue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is it?
Two years.
How does it get its depth so young?
A longer fermentation and lower distillation proof.
What proof is it?
108 proof.
Explore more in our Bourbon collection.
