If you’re a whiskey enthusiast like me, you’ve probably come across some intriguing bottles that catch your attention, and one such release is the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon. This Double Barrel Bourbon is not just a fantastic find for bourbon lovers, but it also marks the opening of the Lux Row Distillers’ distillery, making it a commemorative piece of history.

As I delved deeper into understanding the story behind this limited edition whiskey, I discovered that the term “Double Barrel” refers to the process of choosing two 12-year-old bourbon barrels that complement each other. These handpicked barrels are then blended, creating an exquisite flavor profile. The age statement claims 12 years, but some blends might actually be closer to 13 years, with barrels aged as early as 2006 and as late as 2007.

With the intriguing history behind the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, I couldn’t help but continue exploring this special release. The blend’s proof of 118.4 also serves to commemorate the distillery’s grand opening in April 2018. So, let me share my thoughts and findings on this remarkable bourbon to help you appreciate its uniqueness and flavors.

photo source: luxrowdistillers.com

Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon Overview

Product History

This limited-release bourbon was created to celebrate the grand opening of Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky. Master Blender John Rempe crafted this unique bourbon by blending two 12-year-old barrels together, hence the name “Double Barrel.” The result is a well-balanced, rich whiskey that has garnered attention for its remarkable taste and rarity.

Price Range

While exploring further, I found that the price range for Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon is around $200, making it a premium option in the whiskey world. Given its rarity, limited release, and exceptional quality, this price is justifiable for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate a truly distinguished bourbon.

Distillery Background

Lux Row Distillers is a family-owned distillery in the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky. They’re well-known for their dedication to quality and tradition. Not only do they produce the 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, but they’re also responsible for creating other notable brands such as Rebel Yell, Blood Oath, and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof.

Bourbon Characteristics

When it comes to the tasting notes and characteristics of the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, I discovered that it has an enticingly rich and complex profile. With flavors of caramel, vanilla, oak, and tobacco, this bourbon is a true delight for the senses. The blend of two 12-year-old barrels lends an added layer of depth and character, making it a standout among other bourbons in the market.

Tasting Notes

As I began my tasting experience of the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, I took the time to analyze different aspects such as Aroma, Flavor, Finish, and Rating. To dive deeper into these elements, I’ve shared my personal experience and structured it into sub-sections.

Aroma

Upon first encounter, I noticed the bourbon’s nose to be rich and inviting. I detected hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak which provided a warming sensation. As I swirled the bourbon around in my Glencairn glass, additional notes of tobacco, leather, and a subtle hint of apple emerged, creating an intricate aroma profile.

Flavor

As I took my first sip, the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon presented a delightful burst of flavors on my palate. The initial taste of caramel and brown sugar sweetness transitioned smoothly into a well-balanced blend of oak, leather, and tobacco. Alongside these dominant flavors, I picked up on subtleties of cinnamon, cocoa, and hints of maple syrup, enhancing the overall character of this bourbon.

Finish

The finish of this Lux Row bourbon was long and satisfying. It left a pleasant lingering warmth with flavors of charred oak, chocolate, and a touch of pepper. The mouthfeel was smooth yet bold, as the 118.4 proof contributed to a robust yet balanced profile. The combination of all these elements reinforced the exceptional quality of this sourced bourbon that’s aged in two different barrels for 12 years each.

Rating

After carefully considering the aroma, flavor, and finish of the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, I personally rate it a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. The richness and complexity of its flavor profile, paired with its balanced and smooth mouthfeel, made for a truly remarkable tasting experience. With an MSRP of around $150 (as of 2019), it may be an investment, but it’s definitely a must-try for those who appreciate well-aged bourbons.

Mixing and Pairing

Best Mixers

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When it comes to enjoying Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, I prefer to sip it neat or with a drop of water to open up the flavors. Drinking it from a Glencairn glass allows for a better appreciation of the bourbon’s aroma and flavor.

However, if you’re in the mood for a cocktail, the rich flavors of this bourbon work well with a variety of mixers. Some of my favorites include:

• Coffee: A splash of this bourbon elevates your cup of coffee, adding depth and complexity.
• GT’s Kombucha: A slightly sweet and tangy kombucha like GT’s can complement the bourbon’s caramel and toffee notes.

Cocktail Suggestions

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Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon’s unique flavor profile can make for some fantastic cocktails. Here are two suggestions to try out:

1. Lux Old Fashioned:

• 2 oz Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon
• 1 sugar cube
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel garnish
• Combine and stir in a mixing glass with ice, strain into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube, and garnish with the orange peel.

 

1. Lux Sour:

• 2 oz Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white (optional)
• Combine ingredients in a shaker without ice and shake for a few seconds to emulsify the egg white, then add ice and shake again to chill. Strain into a chilled glass.

Food Pairings

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Finding the perfect food pairing can enhance the Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon experience. While sipping the bourbon alongside some similar offerings such as Old Weller Antique or Buffalo Trace might be an excellent way to compare and contrast, it’s also great to pair this bourbon with some delicious gourmet bites. Some suggestions for food pairings include:

• Rich, dark chocolates: These can complement the bourbon’s sweetness and bring out its bold, oaky flavors.
• Blue cheese: The strong, tangy taste of blue cheese can highlight the bourbon’s vanilla and caramel undertones.
• Smoked meats: The smokiness of meats like brisket, ribs, or charcuterie can emphasize the bourbon’s well-rounded character and delicious, aged flavors.

Conclusion

In my tasting experience of Lux Row 12 Year Double Barrel Bourbon, I found it to be a memorable and enjoyable bourbon. The combination of two 12-year-old barrels brought forth an intriguing flavor profile that showcased the art of blending to create a harmonious balance.

The Double Barrel Bourbon impressed me with its rich flavor profile and expert blending. It is a testament to Lux Row Distillers’ dedication to producing high-quality bourbon, and I, for one, am eager to see what other offerings they will bring to the market in the future.