Howler Head Whiskey Review: A Friendly Taste Test Experience

When I first came across Howler Head Whiskey, I was intrigued by its unique blend of all-American bourbon and fruitiness. Founded by Steve Lipp and Jason Wooler, Howler Head has quickly gained attention in the whiskey world for its bold flavors and unexpected partnership with a major sport. As a fan of both whiskey and trying new things, I couldn’t resist the urge to give it a taste.

Now, I’ll dive into a review of this distinctive whiskey, focusing on its palate, finish, and how it compares to other popular whiskey brands in terms of price and overall experience. Grab a glass and join me in this exploration of Howler Head Whiskey.

photo credit: howlerhead.com

Table of Contents

Howler Head Whiskey Overview

Product History

Let me introduce you to Howler Head Whiskey. It’s an 80-proof, Kentucky straight bourbon with a twist—natural banana flavor. Founded by Steve Lipp and Jason Wooler, it began as a humble venture into the distillery industry and has since grown in popularity. The whiskey is produced by Wooler Brands in partnership with Green River Distilling Co. in North Charleston, South Carolina. Their master distiller, Ron Call, uses a Vendome copper column still to produce this unique-flavored whiskey.

Flavored whiskey is no stranger to the market, but Howler Head’s banana infusion sets it apart. It’s not often you’ll find such a fun and fruity twist on a classic bourbon. The result is a delightful, toffee-like sweetness combined with bananarama goodness.

Price Range

As for the price, Howler Head Whiskey is reasonably priced and tends to be in the same range as other well-known whiskey brands like Knob Creek, Evan Williams, and Bulleit. You can usually find it on Drizly, or your local liquor store may carry it as well. Prices may vary depending on your location and taxes, but it’s generally affordable for those looking to try something new and different in the world of whiskey.

Now, let’s dive into some key features of Howler Head Whiskey:

ABV: 40% (80 proof)
Distillery: Green River Distilling Co., Owensboro, Kentucky
Style: Flavored whiskey (banana infusion)
Aging: American oak barrels
Calories: Similar to other whiskey brands

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Upon opening the bottle of Howler Head whiskey, I immediately noticed the intriguing combination of aromas. The initial scent was reminiscent of dark toffee and brown sugar, giving it a rich sweetness. But what truly sets it apart is the natural banana aroma, which intermingles with the more traditional bourbon scents. It is neither overpowering nor artificial, avoiding the fake banana candy smell you might have expected.

Flavor

When I took my first sip, I was pleasantly surprised by the harmonious blend of flavors. The bourbon’s oakiness complements the banana infusion quite well. It offered tastes of cinnamon, vanilla, and toffee, all interwoven with the subtle, fruity sweetness of ripe bananas. This whiskey is, surprisingly, not as sweet as some peanut butter whiskeys on the market, which I find adds to its appeal.

Finish

After savoring the various flavors on my palate, I was left with an elegantly smooth finish. The aftertaste had hints of banana, toffee, and a touch of spiciness, much like cinnamon. The finish truly amplified the enjoyment of the whiskey and left me wanting more. It was a pleasant contrast to other flavored bourbons and whiskeys, like Fireball or Sheep Dog Peanut Butter Whiskey.

Rating

Overall, I would give Howler Head whiskey a solid 9 out of 10. This unique banana-infused bourbon is a delightful and novel addition to the whiskey category. Its smooth finish, harmonious flavors, and natural banana essence make it a standout choice among flavored whiskeys. I would highly recommend giving it a try, especially if you’re a fan of bourbon and are looking for something different and enjoyable to taste.

Mixing And Pairing

Best Mixers

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As someone who enjoys Howler Head whiskey, I’ve discovered that there are a variety of mixers that work well with this unique, banana-infused bourbon. Some of the best mixers include:

Ginger beer: This mixer adds a fiery kick that complements Howler Head’s smoky flavor.
Apple cider: Combining Howler Head with apple cider brings forth the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth for a cozy cocktail.
Cola: When in doubt, cola is a classic mixer that works well with most whiskeys, including Howler Head.

Cocktail Suggestions

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Experimenting with Howler Head has led me to find a few cocktail recipes that I find delicious and refreshing. Here’s one of my favorites:

Howler Head Banana Bourbon Mule:
1. Combine 2 ounces of Howler Head whiskey, 1/2 ounce of ginger liqueur, 3/4 ounce of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously and strain into a glass filled with ice.
3. Top off with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wheel.

I also recommend trying a Howler Head twist on classic cocktails like the Manhattan, using banana laffy taffy-infused Howler Head as the base spirit.

Food Pairings

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When enjoying a glass of Howler Head whiskey, I find that certain food pairings can enhance the overall experience. Some food suggestions that I believe complement this 80-proof, #4 alligator char bourbon include:

Grilled or smoked meats: The smoky flavor of Howler Head whiskey pairs well with the savory notes of grilled or smoked meats, such as steaks and ribs.
Dark chocolate: The sweetness of the banana flavoring in Howler Head contrasts nicely with the bitterness of dark chocolate, creating a balanced palate.
Sharp cheeses: A strong, aged cheese can stand up to the bold flavors of Howler Head, making for an enjoyable whiskey and cheese pairing.

Conclusion

I recently had the chance to try Howler Head Whiskey, and I must say, it’s quite a unique experience. With its natural banana flavor, this whiskey offers a distinct taste that can be a fun addition to any party or celebration. The high-energy branding, featuring a screaming monkey wearing sunglasses, certainly catches your eye and adds to the overall experience.

Howler Head Whiskey is worth giving a try for those looking to explore a unique and fun spin on the classic bourbon. While it may not be the go-to choice for whiskey connoisseurs, it certainly brings something new and exciting to the table. So next time you’re in the mood for a little adventure, don’t hesitate to give Howler Head a shot.

As a whiskey enthusiast, I’ve come across several other interesting whiskey reviews that I think you might enjoy. Here’s a list of some related posts that are worth checking out:

Woodford Reserve vs Maker’s Mark Bourbon: Which One Should You Choose?

What is the Difference Between Small Batch and Single Barrel?

Howler Head Whiskey Review: A Friendly Taste Test Experience