As a whiskey enthusiast, I was thrilled to try the much-anticipated Remus Volstead Reserve 14 Year Bottled in Bond Bourbon. This ultra-premium bourbon was released to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Volstead Act, and aged for 14 years to honor the 14 years of Prohibition. With a price range of $180-200, this limited, one-time release presents a unique opportunity to taste a piece of history.
Table of Contents
Remus Volstead Reserve 14 Year Bottled in Bond Bourbon Overview
Product History
I recently came across this fascinating bourbon called Remus Volstead Reserve. It was created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Volstead Act, which enforced Prohibition in the United States. This bourbon has been aged for 14 years, precisely the same length of time as Prohibition, making it quite special. It’s produced by MGP, a distillery located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, which has gained prominence for its craftsmanship in producing high-quality whiskies. The bourbon is named after George Remus, a legendary bootlegger who embraced the Prohibition era.
Price Range
The Remus Volstead Reserve comes in an elegant decanter bottle and Art-Deco inspired commemorative box. It’s important to note that this is an ultra-premium, limited-edition bourbon with only around 500 9-liter cases available for collectors and enthusiasts. As for the price, it falls within the range of $180-$200, making it a valuable addition to any bourbon connoisseur’s collection.
photo credit: remusbourbon.com
Tasting Notes
Aroma
As soon as I pour myself a glass of the Remus Volstead Reserve 14 Year Bottled in Bond Bourbon, I’m greeted with rich aromas that fill the air. I can easily detect the scent of dried candied fruit and caramelized pecans, which create a welcoming and enjoyable nosing experience. Additionally, I can sense hints of leather, oak, and spiced oranges, adding complexity to the aroma profile.
Flavor
Taking a sip, my palate is met with an abundance of delightful flavors. I can taste salted caramel, oak spice, and a hint of orange zest that make for a nice balance of sweet and spicy. I also notice other flavors coming through, such as vanilla, toffee, and brown sugar, complemented by subtle notes of cherry, apple, and rye spice. The rich flavors of this bourbon create a satisfying and enjoyable drinking experience.
Finish
The finish of the Remus Volstead Reserve is notably long-lasting, ensuring that the flavors linger on my tongue well after taking a sip. I notice tantalizing tastes of sweet leather melding with baking spices and an intriguing hint of orange peel. Hints of chocolate, honey, and cinnamon can also be detected, adding to the depth and complexity of the finish.
Rating
Taking everything into account, I would give the Remus Volstead Reserve 14 Year Bottled in Bond Bourbon a score of 9 out of 10. This bourbon is well-rounded and offers a robust, enjoyable drinking experience. The balance of flavors, complexity, and excellent mouthfeel all contribute to making this a top-tier bourbon worth trying.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
Trying different mixtures and combinations with Remus Volstead Reserve can be a delightful experience. I personally recommend the following mixers to enhance and complement the bourbon’s complex flavor profile:
- Club soda: A great mixer to lighten the bourbon and let its flavors shine
- Ginger ale: Adds a spicy and sweet bite to the mix
- Sweet Vermouth: Turns the bourbon into an exquisite Manhattan
- Apple cider: Perfect for a fall-season cocktail, as it complements the bourbon’s hints of apple
Cocktail Suggestions
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Remus Volstead Reserve is a versatile bourbon that allows for various cocktail creations. Here are a few suggestions that I think you might enjoy:
- Old Fashioned: With this classic cocktail, the bourbon’s notes of cherry and orange peel will stand out. Combine 2 oz Remus Volstead, 1/2 tsp sugar, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, and garnish with an orange twist and cherry.
- Whiskey Sour: Adding a bit of sourness to the mix enhances the vanilla and caramel flavors of the bourbon. Mix 2 oz of bourbon with 3/4 oz lemon juice, 1/2 oz simple syrup, and an egg white for a creamy texture.
- Bourbon Smash: A refreshing cocktail that brings out the fruity side of the bourbon. Muddle blueberries and mint, then add 2 oz Remus Volstead, 3/4 oz simple syrup, and 3/4 oz lemon juice.
Food Pairings
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Pairing your bourbon with delicious food can truly elevate your experience. To harmonize with the flavors of Remus Volstead Reserve, I suggest the following dishes:
- Charcuterie Board: The salty notes in cured meats and flavorful artisanal cheeses pair well with the bourbon’s salted caramel and rye characteristics.
- Grilled Steak or Barbecued Ribs: The rich, smoky flavors of grilled meats can bring out the vanilla and woodiness of the bourbon.
- Dark Chocolate: A decadent treat that will complement the cherry and spicy undertones in the bourbon.
Conclusion
As I delved into the various reviews of Remus Volstead Reserve 14 Year Bottled in Bond Bourbon, I found a general consensus regarding its unique and rich flavors. The tasting notes often mention aromas of musty oak, brown sugar, toffee, candied pecans, and even hints of orange marmalade and chai spice. It seems that the bourbon has a complex profile that manages to balance these diverse notes into an enjoyable and easy sipper.
While not all markets may have easy access to this special release, those who do manage to find it seem to appreciate the drinking experience it provides. So, if you ever come across Remus Volstead Reserve 14 Year Bottled in Bond Bourbon, I recommend giving it a try and sharing your own opinions on its unique flavors and characteristics.
