Out of the large single barrel production done by Buffalo Trace (Hancock, Eagle Rare, Blanton's, Rock Hill Farms, and Elmer T Lee.), Hancock's President's Reserve is possibly the least well known. There isn't any age statement on the label but word out on the street says it has about 8 years in the barrel. As we all know Buffalo Trace is known for its use of two mash bills (Mash Bill 1, Mash Bill 2), of which all its expression come forth. Where you get Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare from Mash Bill 1, you get the likes of Elmer T. Lee and Hancock Reserve from Mashbill 2. Mashbill 1 consist of a low rye percentage and around 80 percent corn. Mashbill 2 is a higher rye percentage, maybe a 60-70 percent corn bill. And this shows up in every bottle. What you get from Mashbill 1 expressions are more wood and corn sweetness, and less rye spice. Hancock is no different. With 8 years of age, you get a great balance of wood, yet the spice is there, more present than say an Eagle Rare 10 Year Single Barrel.
Hancock's President's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey Review:
Price: Around $45-50.00 for a 750ml bottle.
Packaging/Labeling: Classy and unique western (if not 80-ish) decanter style bottle, yet I find nothing written about its connection to the Buffalo Trace Distillery. Not an unusual site by any means, however, I would be willing to bet that more would grab this up sooner if they only would have been let in on its connection to the great distillery.
Alcoholic Content: 44.45% abv, 88.9 proof.
Nose: Super sweet nose, dark fruit – berries. Honeysuckle, nutmeg, tobacco, oak.
Palate: Honeyed apricot and a wonderful spice front. Sweet, yet nothing overbearing like it was alluding to in the nose. Well balanced leather and drying barrel char on the back.
Conclusion: With a full bodied palate this bourbon has enough spice excitement and a nice sweet center to please even the most skeptical.
Rating: Excellent/Highly Recommended
