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Writer's pictureNick Anderson

Northside Distilling Wan Vinkle Special Reserve Lot “Bee” Honey Barrel Finished Bourbon Flash Review

Updated: Jul 10, 2021



The hilarious label for this pick was created by the private group Boston Barrel Society. It is a play on the Old Rip Van Winkle Lot "B" label in the hazy background of this image. I chose to let this barrel shine on it's own and not try a head to head at this time! @northsidedistillingco said on this post it was one of their "most enjoyable projects to date". This pick also came with a small jar of the honey that was used, which is delicious!


 

Company on Label: Northside Distilling Co

Whiskey Type: Finished Bourbon

Mash Bill Percentages: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Barley

Proof: 99.8° (proofed down by the honey barrel from 108°)

Age: 6 years

Further identification: Boston Barrel Society pick 2020


 

Buttery barbecue savory sweetness immediately on nose. Super robust; proof is apparent, but welcome to me. The rye notes (36% of mash bill) are spectacular. The rye spice is kept in line by the sweet, creamy mouth coating likely from the honey barrel finish, but also could be a slight marshmallow note from the char. Without that balance I think this might drink pretty hot. Through the whole glass the most apparent note is a syrupy cherry. Some extra oak is level and fresh, not tannic or charred. The finish shows the spice that couldn't be subdued. When the glass gets empty the honey barrel really takes over in the glass coating. Overall a very nice experience.


 

Rating: 4/5


I have shared this one with quite a few people at this point. I wish I had another bottle to enjoy myself on hot summer days, but I'd be content sampling out the rest of this bottle for others to get to experience this really unique presentation!



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