I recently had the opportunity to try Warbringer Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey, and I was quite excited to jot down my thoughts and share my experience with fellow whiskey enthusiasts. This unique whiskey is a blend of dark fruit leather, mesquite-smoked meat, and a youthful bourbon taste. Initially, I was skeptical about how these seemingly contrasting flavors would work together, but I must admit that the end result was a pleasantly surprising and daring combination.
The Master Distiller behind Warbringer is a PhD by trade who utilizes his scientific background to innovate the distilling and aging process. Essentially, he pressure cooks the distillate with the wood to accelerate the aging, while still using a #4 char barrel in the process. This method intrigued me, as it deviates from traditional whiskey-making techniques.
The Warmaster Edition is a cask strength, single barrel select version of Warbringer Mesquite Smoked Bourbon. Interestingly, “Warmaster” Josh Barnett, a professional MMA fighter, is actively involved in the whiskey-making process at the Oxnard distillery, from start to finish. This unique collaboration adds an extra layer of curiosity to the tasting experience, and I couldn’t wait to dive in and explore the flavors this whiskey had to offer.
photo source: www.warbringerbourbon.com
Table of Contents
Warbringer Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey Overview
Product History
When I first heard about this bourbon whiskey, I was immediately intrigued by its unique combination of MMA and whiskey culture. Sespe Creek Distillery, located in Oxnard, California, created this distinct product in collaboration with MMA fighter Josh “Warmaster” Barnett. They crafted this limited edition whiskey and named it “Warmaster Edition” after Barnett.
What sets this bourbon apart from the other whiskeys is its mesquite-smoked flavor, which adds an extra layer of depth to the taste. It is pot distilled and made 100% from scratch on-site.
Price Range
Warbringer Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey falls into the premium category, with bottles generally priced around $100 to $200. This limited-edition product is hand-selected by “Warmaster” Barnett himself, ensuring a high level of quality and craftsmanship.
As for the whiskey’s technical aspects:
- Region: California, USA
- Distiller: Sespe Creek Distillery
- Mash Bill: undisclosed
- ABV: varies as it is a single cask strength
- Cask Type: New charred oak and ex-sherry
- Filtration: Non-chill filtered
- Color: Natural color
When considering the price of this bourbon whiskey, it’s important to keep in mind this is not only a carefully crafted spirit but also a unique collaboration with a notable personality in the MMA world.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon opening the bottle, I noticed a unique and inviting aroma. The nose is dominated by mesquite-smoked corn, which gives it a bold and distinctive character. This is accompanied by subtle hints of sherry casks, reminiscent of Balcones Brimstone or Del Bac Dorado. The aroma had me eager to dive into the tasting experience.
Flavor
As I took my first sip, the flavor profile unfolded beautifully on my palate. There’s a good balance of corn sweetness and mesquite smoke, giving it a robust and complex taste. I also detected some notes of Corsair Triple Smoke, adding a new dimension to the overall flavor. Being a cask strength whiskey, the high alcohol content was present but not overpowering, allowing the flavors to shine through.
Finish
The finish carries through the enjoyable mesquite smoke and corn sweetness. It leaves a lasting impression of a campfire setting, providing a sense of warmth and comfort. The finish is not too short, nor too long – I would say it’s just above average in terms of how long it lingers on the palate.
Rating
After going through the tasting notes, taking into account the aroma, flavor, and finish, I would rate Warbringer Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey as a solid choice for a mesquite-smoked whiskey. I found it enjoyable and unique, with a rich flavor profile and a memorable finish. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re looking for something different to try, I would recommend giving it a shot.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
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When it comes to enhancing Warbringer Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey’s unique flavors, I like to keep it simple by choosing mixers that bring out its sherry sweetness and woody character. Here are my top three suggestions:
- Ginger ale: It adds a slight sweetness and spiciness that complements the sherry notes and helps the more robust woody flavors shine through.
- Club soda: A little fizz brings out the whiskey’s complexity and is especially great for sipping on a warm day.
- Simple syrup and fresh citrus juice: For something a bit more adventurous, try enhancing Warmaster’s natural sweetness with a touch of homemade simple syrup, and brightening it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice.
Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey makes a delicious base for some classic drinks. Here are a couple of suggestions:
- Warbringer Old Fashioned: Combine 2 oz of Warmaster Edition Bourbon whiskey, 1 teaspoon of simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters in a glass, and stir well. Fill the glass with ice, garnish with an orange twist, and enjoy the warmth and sweetness brought out by this classic concoction.
- Warmaster Whiskey Sour: Shake together 2 oz of Warmaster Edition Bourbon whiskey, ¾ oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ½ oz of simple syrup. Strain into a glass filled with ice, and garnish with a cherry and a lemon slice for a fresh, tangy twist on the Whiskey Sour that highlights Warmaster’s sherry sweetness.
Food Pairings
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A good meal can help bring out new dimensions in Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey. Here’s what I think pairs well with its intense flavors:
- Smoked meats: The mesquite-smoked character of Warmaster is a natural support to smoked meats like brisket or pulled pork. It also helps balance the sweetness of BBQ sauces.
- Sharp cheeses: Bold, aged cheeses like cheddar or Gouda are a great contrast to Warmaster’s sweetness, allowing its woody flavors to step forward.
- Dark chocolate: Indulge in a square or two of dark chocolate alongside your whiskey for a pairing that plays up the dark fruit leather notes and brings a satisfying conclusion to your evening.
I hope you enjoy exploring Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey’s delightful mixing and pairing possibilities as much as I do!
Conclusion
In my experience, the Warbringer Warmaster Edition Bourbon Whiskey is a unique and intriguing spirit that offers a blend of flavors likely to appeal to those seeking something different. The aroma of dark fruit leather and mesquite-smoked meat offer a striking departure from traditional whiskey scents. On the palate, it presents a youthful bourbon taste, bringing complexity to the mix.
As I enjoyed this whiskey, I couldn’t help but notice how the distinct flavors came together without overpowering each other. The fruitiness and campfire notes blended seamlessly with the more subtle hints of vanilla, grilled sweet cherries, and honey. This balance makes Warbringer Warmaster Edition a standout offering among whiskeys.
Having sampled this whiskey at 113 proof, it’s worth noting that the intensity mellows out relatively quickly, meaning it’s not a harsh experience on your palate. It’s also worth mentioning that the master distiller is a PhD who applies scientific techniques to create and age the whiskey efficiently.
While it’s safe to say that Warbringer Warmaster Edition might not be to everyone’s taste, those with an adventurous palate or seeking a non-traditional whiskey experience should definitely give it a try. Its unique blend of flavors and expert craftsmanship make it an interesting option to explore.
