Bib & Tucker 6yr Bourbon
In the world of bourbon, where heritage and craftsmanship reign supreme, Bib & Tucker 6-Year Bourbon stands out as a tribute to the past while delivering a modern, somewhat satisfying experience. This small-batch bourbon, crafted by 35 Maple Street, captures the essence of traditional whiskey-making with a contemporary twist. From the moment you set eyes on the bottle to the last lingering note on your palate, Bib & Tucker promises a journey through history with every sip. Let’s dive into what makes this bourbon a standout in the crowded world of American whiskey.
A Tangled History: The Journey of Bib & Tucker Bourbon
The name "Bib & Tucker" harkens back to 19th-century slang for a fine outfit, something you’d wear on a special occasion—just like the bourbon itself, intended for noteworthy moments. However, the story behind this 6-year bourbon is as complex as its flavor profile claims to be. Originally crafted by a non-distiller producer, it’s widely speculated that Bib & Tucker sources its bourbon from a Tennessee distillery, often rumored to be George Dickel. But the plot thickens: the brand was first associated with 35 Maple Street, a company renowned for reviving classic, small-batch American whiskey traditions. In 2017, 3 Badge Beverage Corp. acquired 35 Maple Street, only to later sell Bib & Tucker to Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, based in Stamford, CT. This winding tale leaves you wondering if the bourbon inside lives up to the craftsmanship its storied history suggests.
Bottle Design: Rustic Elegance in a Glass
Enough with the sad back-and-forth sale of B&T. Before we even get to the bourbon inside, the bottle makes a statement. The design is a throwback to the 1800s, with an embossed glass bottle that feels like it could have been pulled from a dusty shelf in an old apothecary. The dark amber glass, along with the cork stopper and minimalist labeling, gives it a rustic yet sophisticated appearance. It’s a bottle that stands out on any shelf and hints at the craftsmanship inside. Honestly, that’s why I picked it up!
First Pour: Anticipation in Liquid Form
As the bourbon flows from the bottle, it hits the glass with a light amber color that speaks to its time in the barrel less than 6 years. The legs on the glass are slow to form, hinting at a potentially rich and oily experience ahead. It’s the kind of pour that makes you eager to dive in.
Nose: A Complex Bouquet of Aromas
The first whiff of Bib & Tucker 6 Year is like stepping into a bakery. The nose is dominated by vanilla and caramel, with underlying notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. There’s also a pleasant hint of oak, reminding you of the six years this bourbon spent maturing. As it opens up, subtle fruity notes of dried apricots and figs emerge, adding to the complexity.
Palate: A Balanced Symphony of Flavors
On the palate, this bourbon is smooth and well-balanced. The initial taste brings forward the caramel and vanilla from the nose, but they are quickly joined by deeper flavors of dark chocolate and roasted nuts. The oak influence is present but not overpowering, providing a sturdy backbone to the sweeter notes. A touch of spice, likely from the rye in the mash bill, adds a bit of kick that keeps things interesting.
Finish: A Lingering Warmth
The finish is medium to long but mostly medium and spicy and lingers pleasantly. The oak and spice are most prominent here, with a hint of leather and tobacco that adds a layer of sophistication. It’s a finish that invites you to take another sip, letting the flavors unfold over time.
Final Thoughts: A Bourbon Worth the Occasion?
While Bib & Tucker 6-Year Bourbon certainly makes a strong first impression with its vintage-inspired bottle and intriguing aroma, it falls short where it truly counts—in the glass. The bourbon’s flavors, though pleasant, lack the depth and complexity one might expect from a six-year-old spirit. The finish, while warm, doesn’t leave a lasting impact, making the overall experience feel somewhat forgettable. In the end, Bib & Tucker is a bourbon that relies heavily on its stylish presentation to attract buyers, but the juice inside fails to deliver a memorable tasting experience. It’s a decent pour for the beginner, but it’s not one that lives up to the promise of its packaging.
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 92 • Mashbill: 70% Corn • 26% Rye • 4% Malted Barley • Aged: 6yrs •Price: $50
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 3 • Palate: 2 • Finish: 2 • Uniqueness: 3 • Value: 3 • Overall: 2.6
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 