Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Château De Laubade II has a unique finish, having been aged for 12 years and then finished for 18 months in ex-Armagnac brandy barrels from Château de Laubade. The result is a complex and flavorful sip that will appeal to both bourbon and rye lovers.

Bardstown Chateau de Laubade Overview

Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Chateau de Laubade is a 12-year-old Indiana bourbon that has been finished in Chateau de Laubade’s Armagnac barrels for 18 months. The Armagnac barrels add a refined aged oak note that balances well with sweet and spicy flavors throughout.

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Product History

Château de Laubade, built in 1870, has a sprawling 105 hectares of grape vines in southern France. The Armagnac used in this bourbon is made from four different grape varieties and uses column distillation rather than the pot still method that Cognac uses.

The Chateau de Laubade II (2022) is the sequel to the impressive 2020 release. The 2022 release is a bit more complex in its construction, with a higher alcohol content of 59.2% and a rich auburn, polished mahogany color.

Price Range

The Bardstown Chateau de Laubade is priced between $125 and $159, making it a premium bourbon. The price is justified by the high-quality Armagnac barrels used in the finishing process and the 12-year aging of the bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

I immediately noticed the strong aroma of apricots, both fresh and dried, with a hint of nutmeg and light cinnamon. There were also some light floral notes and a touch of vanilla and oak. As I continued to smell, I picked up on a slightly deeper, darker scent in the background, along with a touch of minerals and even a little milk chocolate.

Flavor

The initial taste was quite complex, with a blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The sweeter notes included vanilla, golden raisin, and caramel, while the spicier notes were reminiscent of rye. The combination of flavors was well-balanced, with neither the sweetness nor the spice overpowering the other. As I continued to sip, I also detected a hint of oak and a touch of vanilla.

Finish

The finish was long and satisfying, with a pleasant warmth that lingered on the tongue. The flavors of apricot and caramel were still present, along with a slightly nutty taste and a hint of cinnamon. Overall, the finish was smooth and enjoyable.

Rating

Based on my tasting experience, I would give Bardstown Bourbon Company Château de Laubade Bourbon a rating of 8 out of 10. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors, along with the complex aroma and satisfying finish, make this bourbon a great choice for sipping on its own or in a cocktail. While it is on the pricier side, I believe it is worth the investment for a special occasion or as a treat for whiskey enthusiasts.

Mixing and Pairing

Best Mixers

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When it comes to mixing Bardstown Chateau de Laubade, I prefer to keep it simple. I find that the best mixers are either water or ice. Adding water or ice to your glass can help to open up the flavors and aromas of the whiskey, making it easier to appreciate the nuances of the spirit.

Cocktail Suggestions

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If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, there are a few cocktails that I think work particularly well with Bardstown Chateau de Laubade. One of my favorites is the Old Fashioned. The sweetness of the bourbon and the subtle fruit notes from the armagnac cask finish pair perfectly with the bitters and sugar in this classic cocktail. Another great option is the Manhattan. The spicy rye whiskey and sweet vermouth complement the caramel and toffee flavors in the Bardstown Chateau de Laubade, creating a complex and delicious drink.

Food Pairings

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Bardstown Chateau de Laubade is a versatile whiskey that pairs well with a variety of foods. One of my favorite pairings is with a charcuterie board. The sweet and savory flavors of the whiskey complement the salty meats and cheeses, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Another great option is to pair Bardstown Chateau de Laubade with a rich dessert, like chocolate cake or bread pudding. The sweetness of the dessert and the caramel notes in the whiskey create a decadent and satisfying combination.

Conclusion

Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Château de Laubade release is a unique and flavorful addition to their collection. The Armagnac finishing process adds a distinct character to the bourbon, with notes of dark fruit and spice that complement the underlying vanilla and caramel flavors.

I would highly recommend giving Bardstown Bourbon Company’s Château de Laubade release a try for those who are looking to expand their whiskey palate and try something new.

Related Posts

If you enjoyed my review of Bardstown Bourbon Company Château de Laubade, you might be interested in reading about some other whiskies that I’ve reviewed recently. Here are a few related posts that you might find interesting:

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