As a bourbon enthusiast, I was excited to try the 2020 release of Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon. This Kentucky Straight Bourbon is produced by Michter’s, a well-respected distillery known for its high-quality spirits.

At 108 proof, I expected a strong and spicy taste but was pleasantly surprised by how smooth and flavorful the bourbon was. The 2020 release of Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon is a well-crafted and enjoyable bourbon that would make a great addition to any whiskey collection.

Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release Overview

Product History

Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is a limited edition Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey produced by Michter’s Distillery. The distillery was originally called Bomberger’s Distillery in Pennsylvania and was later changed to Michter’s in the 1970s. The brand was revived in the 1990s and has since become known for producing high-quality, small-batch spirits.

The 2020 release of Bomberger’s Declaration is the latest addition to the Michter’s Legacy Series, which also includes Shenk’s Homestead Sour Mash Whiskey. Both whiskeys are named after historic figures in the American whiskey industry and are released in limited quantities each year.

Price Range

Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is a premium bourbon whiskey with a retail price of $100. However, due to its limited availability and high demand, it is often sold on the secondary market for significantly more. As of December 2023, the secondary price for a bottle of Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release starts at around $150.

photo credit: www.nicks.com.au

Tasting Notes

Aroma

The aroma of the Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is sweet and inviting. It has a distinct scent of caramel and warm cinnamon rolls, which is balanced perfectly with seasoned oak and a hint of pipe tobacco. As I took a deep whiff, I could also detect notes of Fig Newtons, Heath Candy Bar, and a tiny bit of toasted marshmallow.

Flavor

Upon tasting Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release, I was immediately struck by its smooth and rich flavor. It has a distinctively smooth character that defies its 108 proof strength. The flavor is well-balanced, with a perfect blend of sweetness and aged notes. The seasoned oak stands out, along with a pinch of pipe tobacco, and the flavors of caramel and cinnamon rolls are still present.

Finish

The finish of Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is long-lasting and satisfying. It has a warm, pleasant, and slightly spicy finish that lingers on the tongue. The seasoned oak notes are still present, along with hints of cinnamon and caramel. The finish is not too dry or too sweet, making it a perfect balance.

Rating

Overall, I would give Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release a rating of 9 out of 10. It is a flavorful Kentucky Straight Bourbon that is well-balanced and has a smooth character that defies its 108 proof strength. The aroma is sweet and inviting, and the finish is long-lasting and satisfying. It is a great addition to any whiskey lover’s collection and is definitely worth trying.

Mixing and Pairing

photo credit: www.flickr.com

Best Mixers

Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is a high-quality bourbon that can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. However, if you prefer to mix your bourbon, there are a few mixers that complement its flavors well. Ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, and sweet vermouth are all excellent choices. Ginger ale adds a spicy kick that complements the bourbon’s sweetness, while lemon-lime soda adds a citrusy note that enhances the bourbon’s fruit flavors. Sweet vermouth is a classic mixer for bourbon and adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the drink.

photo credit: live.staticflickr.com

Cocktail Suggestions

Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is a versatile bourbon that can be used in a variety of cocktails. Here are a few cocktail suggestions to try:

• Old Fashioned: Combine 2 oz. Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release, 1 tsp. simple syrup, and 2 dashes of bitters in a rocks glass. Add ice and stir until chilled. Garnish with an orange peel.
• Manhattan: Combine 2 oz. Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release, 1 oz. sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry.
• Whiskey Sour: Combine 2 oz. Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release, 1 oz. lemon juice, and 1/2 oz. simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice.

photo credit: www.pexels.com

Food Pairings

Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release has a complex flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are a few food pairings to try:

• Grilled steak: The bold flavors of Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release complement the rich, smoky flavors of a grilled steak.
• Dark chocolate: The bourbon’s sweetness and fruit flavors pair well with the bitterness of dark chocolate.
• Roasted nuts: The nutty flavors of roasted nuts complement the bourbon’s oak and vanilla flavors.

Conclusion

The Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release is a well-crafted and flavorful bourbon that is definitely worth trying. Its 108 proof strength is balanced by a smooth character that makes it easy to drink. The barrels used for aging were made from special wood that has been naturally air-dried for over three years, which gives the bourbon a unique taste.

I would recommend the Bomberger’s Declaration 2020 Release to anyone who enjoys a good bourbon. Its price point may be a bit steep for some, but it is well worth the investment for those who appreciate quality. If you are a fan of Michter’s annual limited release products, then this is definitely a must-try.

Related Posts

If you enjoyed my review of Bomberger’s Declaration 2020, you might also be interested in reading some of my other reviews of unique and interesting whiskies. Here are a few related posts:

• Reviewing Mackmyra rum-finished expression Vinterdröm: This Swedish whisky is finished in rum casks, giving it a sweet and spicy flavor profile that’s similar to Bomberger’s Declaration.
• Reviewing Teeling 24 Years Old: This Irish whiskey is aged for 24 years, giving it a rich and complex flavor that’s similar to Bomberger’s Declaration.
• Black Mountain: when Whisky meets Armagnac: This French whisky is finished in Armagnac casks, giving it a unique and flavorful profile that’s similar to Bomberger’s Declaration.
• Reviewing Bruichladdich’s Octomore 10 years old (2nd edition): This Islay whisky is heavily peated, giving it a smoky and intense flavor that’s similar to Bomberger’s Declaration.
• Reviewing new Tobermory 21 (Manzanilla Cask Finish): This Scottish whisky is finished in Manzanilla sherry casks, giving it a unique and complex flavor that’s similar to Bomberger’s Declaration.