I received this spirit as a review sample from Silverthorn Reserve, linked here. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.
Silverthorn Reserve is one of the newer names hitting shelves in 2026, and they’re making it clear from the start that transparency is part of the mission. The brand provides full details on sourcing, mash bills, and blend percentages. That kind of openness is always a strong first step.
The Blender's Art expression brings together well-aged stocks from Georgia and Indiana, blending straight bourbon and straight rye whiskeys. On paper, it promises both maturity and balance, walking the line between classic bourbon richness and rye-driven lift. The Indiana stocks are likely sourced from MGP, known for their 95/5 rye mash bill, while the Georgia bourbon adds an intriguing layer of age and regional character that is less commonly seen at this maturity.
It is a thoughtful construction, designed to marry the deep backbone of mature bourbon with the spice and structure of aged rye.
Age Statement: 10 years.
ABV: 51.5%
Blend:
• 50% 13yr old straight bourbon whiskey 80% corn, 10% rye, 5% wheat, 5% malted barley from Georgia.
• 28% 10yr old straight rye whiskey 51% rye, 44% corn, 5% malted barley from Indiana.
• 22% 10-year-old Straight rye whiskey, 95% Rye, 5% malted barley from Indiana.
Area of Distillation: Georgia & Indiana.
Appearance: Dark mahogany with a rich amber.
On the nose:
The aroma opens with sweet earthiness, brown sugar, and a touch of molasses that leans almost into sarsaparilla territory. There is a soft but defined rye spice underneath, offering cinnamon, clove, and freshly grated nutmeg. Oak char and subtle wood sugars frame the profile, while hints of leather and polished wood give it a refined maturity. A gentle green apple note, slightly tart like Granny Smith, weaves through the spice and sweetness beautifully.
Taste:
The palate is rich and coating from front to back. Cinnamon stick, clove, and baking spice lead the charge, supported by a structured oak presence that never turns overly tannic. There is a slight herbal and faintly medicinal rye quality, but it stays controlled and elegant. The green apple sweetness returns mid-palate, adding lift to the darker tones of caramel and char.
Subtle maple sweetness emerges on subsequent sips, accompanied by a nutty character reminiscent of walnut or cashew. At times, a creamy milk chocolate note appears, similar to the smooth center of a Lindor truffle. The proof is spot on, offering depth without harshness.
Finish:
The finish carries light pepper, lingering baking spice, and that consistent thread of sweet-tart apple. It clings to the palate with a textured weight that is neither oily nor thin. The flavors shift in waves rather than competing, maintaining cohesion from start to finish.
Final Thoughts:
Silverthorn Reserve has delivered a blend that feels both mature and approachable. The transparency in sourcing and blending is commendable, but more importantly, the whiskey performs in the glass. It balances the bold spice of aged rye with the round sweetness and structure of well-aged bourbon in a way that feels intentional and harmonious.
This is a bottle that can serve as an introduction to higher-proof, well-aged whiskey while still offering enough complexity for seasoned enthusiasts to explore. For a new brand entering the market in 2026, this is exactly the kind of statement release you want to see.
Rating: A (Excellent).
Cost: $99.99 for 750ml.
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