West Fork Whsky Co. High Corn Double Oak Bourbon Review.
West Fork Whsky Co. High Corn Double Oak Bourbon Review.
West Fork continues to be one of those craft distilleries that quietly overdelivers. Based out of Westfield, Indiana, they distill, age, and bottle their own whiskey, and their double oaked releases in particular have consistently impressed me. This single barrel, bottled at a bold 60.05% ABV and aged at least three years, proves once again that age is only part of the equation.
Released in 2025 and finally opened back up in 2026, this bottle comes with impressive transparency: cask strength, non-chill filtered, and a clearly disclosing a mash bill. Even the back label is packed with information. This is a true grain-to-glass Indiana craft bourbon. After initial maturation, the whiskey undergoes a second barreling in a new charred oak barrel, the classic double oak treatment. This process amplifies wood sugars, deepens color, and layers in additional barrel char and tannin. At barrel proof and single barrel, there is no dilution or blending to smooth things out. What you get is a raw, unfiltered snapshot of that specific cask.
Age Statement: +3 years (Single barrel).
ABV: 60.05% (Cask strength).
Mash bill: 73%, supported by 17% wheat and 10% rye.
Area of Distillation: Westfield, Indiana.
Finishing: New charred American oak.
Appearance: Dark red.
On the nose:
On the nose:
Right away, there is a rich, velvety cherry note that immediately evokes dark chocolate-covered cherries or even Black Forest cake. Layers of dark chocolate drizzle, sliced cherries, and vanilla bean paste follow. The oak is assertive but welcome, bringing caramelized wood sugars and deep barrel char. There is a touch of ethanol and youthful sharpness, but it reads more as energetic than flawed. Sweet corn dustiness and a subtle rye spice sit underneath, while the wheat contributes a cedar and sandalwood-like spice that adds intrigue.
Taste:
The first sip is warm, as expected at barrel proof, but it quickly settles into a rich and oily mouthfeel. Dark chocolate, cherry compote, and barrel char lead the way. The texture is viscous and coating, carrying brown sugar sweetness and a savory, peppered steak-like spice. The corn shows up beautifully here as sweet, buttery, and even slightly grilled. Vanilla bean paste returns, deeper and more concentrated than a simple vanilla cream note. Tannins are present but well integrated, helping the whiskey drink older than its stated age.
Finish:
The finish lingers with wheat spice, a gentle rye kick, and a light herbal edge. A touch of blackberry compote emerges on later sips, adding a subtle layer of dark fruit. Barrel char and oak tannins persist, clinging to the palate in a satisfying way. It remains bold but balanced, showcasing exactly what a well-executed double oak bourbon should deliver.
Final Thoughts:
For a three-year-old craft bourbon priced around $60, this is impressive. The transparency, single barrel selection, barrel proof presentation, and full in-house production all add to the appeal. While a few extra years could bring added complexity and refinement, it already punches above its age statement.
This is a confident, flavorful double oak that stays true to its bourbon roots while embracing the depth that secondary maturation can provide.
Rating: B- (Fairly good).
Cost: $59.99 for 750ml.
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