Rating 94
Style
American Whiskey
Whiskey
Produced In United States
ABV 50%
Availability Year Round
Price $62.00 
Reviewed By
Reviewed 2021-09-20

A. Smith Bowman Distillery 'John J. Bowman' Pioneer Spirit Single Barrel Review

Virginia’s A. Smith Bowman Distillery — owned by the Sazerac Company — bottles its single-barrel "John J. Bowman" bourbon at 50 percent ABV. The whiskey has an interesting and enjoyable profile, and slightly murky backstory. Previously, it was rumored that the distillery sourced new-make from Buffalo Trace then ran the spirit through its own stills twice (it's no longer clear if that's still the case). Either way, whatever they're doing over in Virginia, the results are great, and a departure from the “traditional” Kentucky profile. Cherry and fresh herb aromas lead the nose, along with hints of mature oak. (Think European vs American oak, if this were wine.) The palate serves a jolt of ripe fruit and caramel sweetness, but never feels cloying.

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94
POINTS
A. Smith Bowman Distillery 'John J. Bowman' Pioneer Spirit Single Barrel
Virginia’s A. Smith Bowman Distillery — owned by the Sazerac Company — bottles its single-barrel "John J. Bowman" bourbon at 50 percent ABV. The whiskey has an interesting and enjoyable profile, and slightly murky backstory. Previously, it was rumored that the distillery sourced new-make from Buffalo Trace then ran the spirit through its own stills twice (it's no longer clear if that's still the case). Either way, whatever they're doing over in Virginia, the results are great, and a departure from the “traditional” Kentucky profile. Cherry and fresh herb aromas lead the nose, along with hints of mature oak. (Think European vs American oak, if this were wine.) The palate serves a jolt of ripe fruit and caramel sweetness, but never feels cloying.

Reviewed On: 09-20-2021
94
POINTS
A. Smith Bowman Distillery 'John J. Bowman' Pioneer Spirit Single Barrel
Virginia’s A. Smith Bowman Distillery — owned by the Sazerac Company — bottles its single-barrel "John J. Bowman" bourbon at 50 percent ABV. The whiskey has an interesting and enjoyable profile, and slightly murky backstory. Previously, it was rumored that the distillery sourced new-make from Buffalo Trace then ran the spirit through its own stills twice (it's no longer clear if that's still the case). Either way, whatever they're doing over in Virginia, the results are great, and a departure from the “traditional” Kentucky profile. Cherry and fresh herb aromas lead the nose, along with hints of mature oak. (Think European vs American oak, if this were wine.) The palate serves a jolt of ripe fruit and caramel sweetness, but never feels cloying.

Reviewed On: 09-20-2021