I recently had the opportunity to try Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon, and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. This bourbon has a nice darkness, sweetness, and fruitiness that come off far stronger than its 47.6% ABV and 5 years of aging. While it may not be the most complex bourbon out there, I found myself really enjoying it nonetheless.
Table of Contents
Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon Overview
Product History
Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon is a limited-edition, heavy-rye bourbon distilled in Indiana in 2015. It was selected and bottled by Proof and Wood, in collaboration with the now-closed East Village, NY, bar of the same name. Upon further research, I discovered that the latest batch of Idle Hands shares a mash bill with Proof & Wood’s Deadwood Tumblin’ Dice 5-year-old bourbon.
The Tumblin’ Dice label promotes it as a “heavy-rye mash bill,” and it’s bottled at barrel proof (between 109 and 119 proof). This explains the spicy kick that I noticed in the Idle Hands bourbon. The mash bill of this bourbon consists of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% barley.
This bourbon is the second release from the Idle Hands series. The first Idle Hands, in 2019, amounted to a total of 180 bottles. The second release, which is the one we are discussing, is a limited edition that was aged for five years.
Price Range
Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon is a mid-range bourbon, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 per bottle. The price may vary depending on the location and the availability of the product.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
The aroma of Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon is pleasant and inviting. It has a strong smell of caramel and vanilla that is followed by the scent of rye-driven licorice and fennel. The aroma also has hints of baked apple, dried orange, and roasted oak.
Flavor
Upon tasting, the first thing that comes to mind is the sweetness of the bourbon. The flavor is dominated by the tastes of caramel and vanilla, followed by the rye-driven licorice and fennel. It also has a raisin-cinnamon roll vibe with hints of roasted grain and cinnamon. The flavor is not overly complex but still enjoyable.
Finish
The finish of Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon is smooth and warm. It has a medium finish that leaves a pleasant aftertaste of caramel and vanilla. The finish is not overly long but still satisfying.
Rating
Overall, I would give Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon a rating of 7.5 out of 10. It is a solid bourbon with a pleasant aroma and flavor. The finish is smooth and satisfying. It may not be the most complex bourbon out there, but it is still enjoyable to drink.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a complex and flavorful whiskey that doesn’t necessarily need to be mixed. However, if you do want to mix it, there are a few mixers that work particularly well. Ginger ale is a great option, as it adds a bit of sweetness and spice to the whiskey without overpowering it. Club soda is also a good choice, as it allows the flavors of the bourbon to shine through without any added sweetness.
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking to make a cocktail with Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon, there are a few classic options that work well. A Manhattan is a great choice, as the vermouth and bitters complement the flavors of the bourbon, while a Whiskey Sour is another classic cocktail that allows the flavors of the whiskey to shine through. For a more modern twist, try a Bourbon Smash, which combines bourbon, mint, and lemon for a refreshing and flavorful drink.
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Food Pairings
When it comes to food pairings, Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon is a versatile whiskey that can be paired with a variety of dishes. For a classic pairing, try serving it with a steak or other grilled meats, as the flavors of the bourbon complement the smoky flavors of the meat. For a lighter pairing, try serving it with seafood or a salad, as the complex flavors of the whiskey can add depth to lighter dishes. Finally, for a sweet pairing, try serving it with a dessert that features caramel or vanilla flavors, as these flavors are also present in the whiskey.
Conclusion
After conducting a thorough review of Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon, I can confidently say that this is a solid choice for bourbon lovers. The whiskey has a nice balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and spiciness that makes it easy to drink and enjoy.
I would recommend Idle Hands 5 Year Bourbon to anyone looking for a solid, reliable bourbon that won’t break the bank. It’s a great choice for sipping neat or mixing into your favorite cocktail. Give it a try, and see for yourself!
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