Lasso Motel Tokaji Cask Finished Bourbon Whiskey Review.

    I received this spirit as a review sample from Lasso Motel, linked here. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.

    Lasso Motel continues to carve out a name for itself with transparency and creative finishing, and this release might be one of their most compelling yet. One thing I consistently appreciate about Lasso Motel is their openness. They clearly state the distillation source and mash bill, which as a whiskey enthusiast is something I always want to see. There’s no mystery here. Just good bourbon and thoughtful finishing.

    The base bourbon is distilled in Kentucky at Green River Distillery using a mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley. After maturation, it’s finished in Tokaji casks, which previously held the famous Hungarian sweet wine known for its rich fruit character and honeyed depth.

    Tokaji finishes have been gaining traction lately, and when handled well, they can add layered sweetness without overwhelming the bourbon’s core. At 50% ABV, this sits at a proof point that should satisfy both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those dipping their toes into higher proof territory.

For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/MD1RjJKRUqw.

Age Statement: N/A.

ABV: 50%.

Mash bill: 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley.

Finishing: Ex-Tokaji casks.

Area of Distillation: Green River Distilling.

Appearance: Dark Amber.


On the nose:

    Right away, the sweetness is present but controlled. Buttery sweet corn from the bourbon leads the charge, followed by rye spice bringing floral and lightly herbal notes. There’s cinnamon, honey drizzle, and a distinct white peach character that feels lifted from the Tokaji cask.

    As it opens up, vanilla cream and caramel develop alongside brown sugar and char. The fruit becomes more expressive with pear, honeysuckle, and even a surprising prickly pear note that adds a unique brightness. It’s soft, inviting, and beautifully integrated with no harsh ethanol.

Taste:

    The Tokaji cask showcases itself immediately with white peach, pear, and even white grape notes. The sweet corn and buttery richness of the bourbon remain intact, while the rye spice provides structure and balance.

    There’s a creamy vanilla note that blends with baking spice to create something reminiscent of sweet bread. Clove and cinnamon stick add depth. A light wine character appears mid-palate, almost like a slightly biting white wine, before transitioning back into stewed pear, apple sweetness, and darker bourbon-driven char.

Finish:

    The finish lingers nicely with a steady warmth at 50% ABV. The wine influence never overpowers. Instead, it complements the bourbon, allowing the sweeter fruit notes and charred oak to take turns in the spotlight. There’s a cohesive balance here that feels intentional and well executed.

Final Thoughts: 

    Lasso Motel’s Tokaji-finished bourbon is a compelling pour, one that manages to honor both the base spirit and the finishing cask without sacrificing either. The transparency around sourcing and mash bill is a whiskey nerd’s dream, and the execution of the finish is a testament to thoughtful blending. A standout release from a promising new label. This one is worth a spot on your shelf.

Rating: A- (Amazing).

Cost: $74.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/MD1RjJKRUqw.

Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt.

Learn more about Lasso Motel via the link here: https://lassomotelwhiskey.com/.