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 may be a newer name in the whiskey space, but they’re already carving out a reputation for transparency and thoughtful finishing. This Kentucky Straight Bourbon, sourced from Green River Distilling Co., is finished in port casks and bottled at 50% ABV. Full disclosure, this bottle was sent as a review sample after I reached out to the brand.
What immediately stands out is their openness. They tell you exactly where the whiskey comes from and what’s in it. That kind of transparency matters. Even before the cork is pulled, the deep color in the glass hints at a generous port influence layered over a solid bourbon backbone. Port finishing can sometimes overpower a bourbon, pushing it fully into dessert territory. Here, the goal seems more balanced. Bottling at 50% ABV preserves structure and intensity, allowing both the base bourbon and the finishing cask to speak clearly.
Age Statement: N/A.
ABV: 50%.
Mash bill: 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley.
Finishing: Ex-port cask.
Area of Distillation: Green River Distillery.
Appearance: Rich dark amber.
On the nose:
The port influence is immediate but not overwhelming. Rich, dark fruit leads the way with notes of tart cherry, reminiscent of Luxardo cherry, alongside plum and fig. Underneath that sits a buttery corn sweetness and herbal rye spice. There’s a gentle nuttiness, hints of baking spice like clove and cinnamon, and even a touch of leather. Despite the 50% ABV, there’s no harshness. It’s velvety, layered, and inviting.
Taste:
The palate mirrors the nose closely. Sweet corn and rye spice form the base, while the port cask contributes baked cherry pie filling, dark fruit, and a subtle wine-like character with soft grape undertones. The texture is where this whiskey really shines. It’s rich without being heavy. A light char note weaves through the fruit, almost like lightly torched fruit garnish on a cocktail, alongside hints of vanilla and baking spice.
Finish:
The finish carries lingering cherry, baking spices, and a touch of pepper from the rye. There’s a slight bitterness at the very end, likely from the port cask, but it’s minor and never distracting. Dark fruit and subtle oak char continue to echo as it fades.
Final Thoughts:
Lasso Motel’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon with a Port Cask Finish is a smart, approachable entry into the world of finished whiskeys. It manages to hold onto its bourbon identity while leaning gently into the sweeter, fruit-driven notes from the port. At $75, it's priced right for what it delivers: depth, transparency, and a bottle that looks just as good on the shelf as it tastes in the glass. The only minor quibble is a touch of bitterness in the finish, but it’s fleeting and doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
Rating: A- (Amazing).
Cost: $74.99 for 750ml.
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