Tasting Notes
- Nose: Caramelized brown sugar, baking spices, toasted oak, vanilla bean, candied orange peel
- Palate: Rich honey, black pepper, cinnamon bark, dark chocolate, leather, dried cherry
- Finish: Long finish with warming rye spice, oak tannins, tobacco leaf, lingering vanilla sweetness
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 57.7% (115.4 Proof) |
| Volume | 750ML |
| Age Statement | 10 Years |
| Release Year | 2016 |
| Distillery | Cardinal Spirits |
| Region | Indiana |
| Mash Bill | 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley |
| Cask Number | 09 |
| Bottled By | Lost Generation Bottling |
Perfect For
- Literary Enthusiasts: Collectors who appreciate the intersection of fine spirits and classic literature
- Single Cask Collectors: Bourbon aficionados seeking unique, unrepeatable expressions
- Contemplative Sipping: Evening moments of reflection, perhaps accompanied by jazz or classical music
- Gift Giving: Distinguished present for whiskey lovers who value both substance and story
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Rambling Spirit The Beautiful and the Damned taste like?
This 10-year bourbon delivers a rich, complex profile with prominent rye spice character. The high-rye mash bill creates layers of black pepper and cinnamon, balanced by sweet vanilla and caramel notes from the decade of aging. At 115.4 proof, it offers full-bodied intensity without overwhelming heat.
Is this bourbon good for cocktails or should it be enjoyed neat?
While this single cask expression shines when sipped neat or with a splash of water, its robust 115.4 proof makes it excellent for spirit-forward cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. The high rye content adds spice complexity that elevates classic whiskey cocktails.
What makes this release special compared to regular bourbon?
This is a single cask bottling, meaning every bottle comes from one unique barrel, making it unrepeatable once sold out. The 10-year age statement, high-rye mash bill, and cask strength bottling create a premium experience. The literary theme and companion playlist add cultural depth beyond the liquid itself.
How should I store and serve this bourbon?
Store upright in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations. Serve neat in a Glencairn glass or with a few drops of water to open up the aromatics. The high proof means a little goes a long way - start with smaller pours to fully appreciate the complexity.
What bourbons are similar to this expression?
For fans of high-rye, cask-strength bourbons, consider expressions like Russell's Reserve Single Barrel or Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve. The Indiana distillery profile may also appeal to those who enjoy MGP-sourced bourbons from brands like Redemption or Templeton.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.