Guardian Angel Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Toasted Cask Review.
Guardian Angel Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in a Toasted Cask Review.
I received this spirit as a review sample from Cattle Drive Bourbon/Nola Distillery, linked here. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review. I enjoy Texas whiskey. I know it is can be a dividing area for some, but personally I love the dark, oaky, and rich profile they can bring. Now, to be honest, once I saw someone taking a Texas profile and finishing it in a toasted cask, it caught my attention for sure. Typically for me a toasted cask brings out some sweeter, lighter flavors. So my mind says this could be a beautiful marriage of bold and sweet.
Now, due to the nature of the name Guardian Angel, I wanted to share that story. It honors an F-16 fighter pilot who flew rescue missions to support U.S. Marines. He did this to such a degree he was given the title of "Guardian Angel." In fact, they’ve partnered with the actual pilot to bring these releases to the masses.
As always, thank you to all those in the service.
For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/YZ3ZRY1Yhyc
Age Statement: N/A.
ABV: 57.6%.
Mashbill: N/A, though labeled "High-Rye."
Area of Distillation: Texas.
Finishing: Toasted cask.
Appearance: Dark Mahogany.
On the nose:
On the nose, this bourbon comes at you with a bold Texas signature. There’s an underlying mesquite smoke and a slight saltiness reminiscent of curing salt. But the toasted cask finish really shines, mellowing out the intensity and introducing layers of buttercream sweetness and homemade caramel. There’s even a salted caramel vibe, which is wild. As I let it open up, hints of milk chocolate began to emerge, adding depth and richness.
Taste:
The taste delivers on that complexity. The palate is coated in sweet cinnamon and a touch of dark cherry, with an underlying smokiness and a hint of saltiness. This combination creates a wonderful contrast between the sweet and savory elements. The finish brings a delicate white pepper spiciness, alongside notes of tobacco and earthy oak. I also picked up a lingering flavor reminiscent of baked apples, autumnal note that ties everything together beautifully.
Finish:
Leaving you with both a bit of oak char, sweet wood sugars, and just a touch of that chocolate. The toasted cask finish plays a significant role in softening the typically bold flavors of Texas whiskey, making it more approachable for those who may be on the fence about this particular style.
Final Thoughts:
While I’m partial to Texas whiskey, the toasted cask is a standout for me. It adds layers of sweetness that balance out the boldness of the Texas profile, with caramel, vanilla, and salted chocolate playing harmoniously with the oak and smoke. I truly think this bottle would appeal to a wide range of bourbon lovers, even those who might not typically pick up a Texas Whiskey. It’s complex, bold, and balanced.
Rating: -A (Amazing).
Cost: $50-$55 for 750ml.
For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/YZ3ZRY1Yhyc
Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt
Learn more about Guardian Angel Bourbon via the link here: https://www.guardianangelbourbons.com/
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