Green River Toasted Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey Review.
Green River has quietly become one of the most dependable names in bourbon over the last few years. Their standard bourbon, wheated bourbon, full proof offerings, and especially their single barrel releases have consistently delivered quality well above their price point. So when word started circulating about a toasted barrel-finished release, expectations were already high.
This Double Oak Toasted Bourbon takes Green River's traditional bourbon recipe and gives it additional time in a toasted barrel, this should create a richer and sweeter profile while maintaining the foundation that has made the brand so popular. Currently released as a distillery-exclusive 375ml bottle, this appears to be a smaller test run, but it's exactly the kind of project bourbon fans love to see.
Green River has quietly become one of the most dependable names in bourbon over the last few years. Their standard bourbon, wheated bourbon, full proof offerings, and especially their single barrel releases have consistently delivered quality well above their price point. So when word started circulating about a toasted barrel-finished release, expectations were already high.
This Double Oak Toasted Bourbon takes Green River's traditional bourbon recipe and gives it additional time in a toasted barrel, this should create a richer and sweeter profile while maintaining the foundation that has made the brand so popular. Currently released as a distillery-exclusive 375ml bottle, this appears to be a smaller test run, but it's exactly the kind of project bourbon fans love to see.
Age Statement: 8 1/2 years (according to press release).
ABV: 57.55%
Mash bill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley.
Area of Distillation: Owensboro, Kentucky.
Finishing: Toasted oak cask.
Appearance: Tarnished penny.
On the nose:
On the nose:
The toasted barrel influence arrives immediately. Toasted marshmallow leads the way, followed by graham cracker, brown sugar, and sweet corn. The rye spice provides subtle support through notes of cinnamon stick and clove, while darker oak char adds depth without becoming aggressive. As the glass opens up, notes of fig jam, raspberry preserves, and dark fruit emerge alongside hints of chocolate.
The overall effect is remarkably reminiscent of a freshly made s'more, yet never crosses into flavored whiskey territory. Despite the elevated proof, there is virtually no ethanol burn. Instead, the nose carries a warm, buttery brown sugar richness that invites repeated visits.
Taste:
The first sip is exceptionally sweet and rich. Maple candy, sandalwood, caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak dominate the experience. The toasted barrel contributes layers of marshmallow sweetness and pastry-like notes that reinforce the s'mores comparison established on the nose. Chocolate, sweet grains, cinnamon dusting, and dark caramel continue to build complexity.
The proof delivers excellent warmth while maintaining control, allowing the flavors to remain distinct and approachable. Subsequent sips reveal additional notes of green apple, leather, and deeper oak char, but the balance remains impressive throughout. Most importantly, the toasted finish never overshadows the underlying bourbon. Green River's signature profile remains present while the toasted barrel simply enhances and expands the experience.
Finish:
Long, warm, and coating. Sweet oak, marshmallow, maple, vanilla, and lingering baking spices slowly fade across the palate. The finish remains rich without becoming overly tannic or bitter, which is often where some toasted barrel releases struggle.
Final Thoughts:
Green River absolutely nailed this release. One of the biggest challenges with toasted barrel finishes is maintaining balance. Some become too oak-forward, while others fail to showcase enough influence from the finishing barrel. This bourbon finds the sweet spot perfectly. The toasted marshmallow, maple, graham cracker, and sweet oak notes are all present, yet the core bourbon remains front and center.
The result is a whiskey that feels richer, deeper, and more complex without losing its identity. At $49.99 for a 375ml bottle, it isn't inexpensive, but the quality easily justifies the price. If Green River eventually expands this release into a wider offering, it could become one of the better toasted bourbons available on the market.
Rating: A (Excellent).
Cost: $49.99 for 375ml.
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