Hard Truth Odd Bourbon Bottled in Bond Whiskey Review.

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Hard Truth Odd Bourbon Whiskey Review.

    Hard Truth Distilling continues to be one of Indiana’s most interesting craft producers, and this American Odd Sweet Mash Bottled in Bond Bourbon represents the final release in their four-bottle collaboration with the John Mellencamp Whiskey Company. This release leans heavily into Hard Truth’s commitment to sweet mash production and locally sourced Indiana grains. It’s a bottle I originally approached with hesitation on paper, but after finding it at the right price, curiosity won out.

    What immediately stands out is the philosophy behind the bottle. From grain to glass, Hard Truth handles nearly every step in-house, and the collaboration’s tie-in with Farm Aid adds a meaningful layer to the release. Supporting local farmers and emphasizing regional grain usage gives this bourbon a sense of purpose beyond just what’s in the glass. This is a sweet mash straight bourbon made with 100% Indiana-grown grains sourced from Rushville, Indiana.


For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/AdbwbZS7blI.

Age Statement: 4 years (Bottled in Bond).

ABV: 50%.

Mash bill: 82% Indiana corn and 18% Indiana rye.

Area of Distillation: Nashville, Indiana.

Appearance: Dark golden.


On the nose:
    The nose opens with buttery sweet corn, layered with cinnamon, clove, and a touch of herbal spice. There’s a noticeable peach sweet tea note that adds charm, along with subtle orchard fruit hints reminiscent of apple. While there is a bit of grain-forward youth present, it doesn’t come across as rough or overly craft-leaning. The aromas are simple, inviting, and clean, with no harsh alcohol or off notes.

Taste:
  The palate leads with a bold burst of cherry, followed by rich oiliness and warming spice. Cinnamon stick, clove, and vanilla come through clearly, with the vanilla presenting almost like a creamy yogurt or pudding note. The mouthfeel is pleasantly viscous and smooth, carrying a balanced corn sweetness and mild pepperiness. Complexity is limited, but the flavors are cohesive and well-executed for the age. 


Finish:
   The finish is where the bourbon falls a bit short. While smooth and clean, it fades fairly quickly and doesn’t strongly pull you back for another sip. The flavors drift away without much lingering depth, leaving a pleasant but brief conclusion.


Final Thoughts: 
    At its core, this is a solid, well-made craft bourbon that respects the Bottled in Bond tradition and showcases local Indiana grain. It doesn’t drink overly young, and the nose in particular is a standout. That said, it doesn’t quite distinguish itself in a crowded field of bottled and bond bourbons, especially at higher price points.

    At an SRP of $70, it feels borderline, and at the $80–$85 range often seen on shelves, it becomes hard to justify. Found closer to $60–$65, it makes much more sense. With additional aging, this could become something truly special.


Rating: C+ (Slightly above average).

Cost: $64.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/AdbwbZS7blI.

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

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