Stellum Bourbon
Before diving into the review, let's touch on the background of Stellum Bourbon. Stellum is a relatively new player in the bourbon game, emerging as a brand under the Barrell Craft Spirits umbrella in recent years. Barrell Craft Spirits, known for its innovative and limited releases, sought to create a more accessible and consistent bourbon by introducing Stellum.
If you've been searching the bourbon aisle for something new to tantalize your taste buds, you might have stumbled upon Stellum Bourbon. As an amateur bourbon enthusiast, a client recognized I might want to try his favorite, so I gave it a shot, and here's my take on this intriguing spirit.
Let's start with the first impression – the packaging. Stellum Bourbon comes in a sleek and modern bottle, catching your eye with its minimalistic label. While it won't win any awards for groundbreaking design, it does the job of standing out on the shelf. The bottle's simplicity exudes a certain elegance, but I can't help but feel it lacks a bit of personality.
Upon opening the bottle, the aroma immediately captivates—notes of caramel and vanilla dance in the air, promising a warm and inviting experience. There's a subtle hint of spice that piques your curiosity. It's an olfactory journey that suggests a well-crafted bourbon awaits.
The first sip reveals a complex palate as the liquid amber enters the glass. The initial sweetness of caramel and honey is pleasant, but it's quickly followed by a burst of spiciness that takes center stage. The interplay between sweet and spicy is intriguing but might only be to some people's liking. The finish is moderate, leaving a lingering warmth on the palate. While it's a decent bourbon, the flavors lack the depth and nuance of some of its competitors.
Here's where Stellum Bourbon falls short for me. The alcohol burn is more pronounced than expected, especially considering its proof. It's not overly harsh, but the lack of a smoother finish leaves something to be desired. Adding a splash of water helps mellow out the heat and dilutes some of the flavors.
In terms of affordability, Stellum Bourbon falls in the mid-range category. While it's not the cheapest option on the shelf, it also won't break the bank. Considering the complexity of the flavor profile, it's a reasonable choice for those looking to explore without a hefty price tag. So, you will feel good about finishing this and returning for a second bottle at your local watering hole.
In the vast landscape of bourbons, my overall impression of Stellum finds itself in the middle ground. It's not a standout or a disappointment despite the father-in-law not putting his stamp of approval. A distinctive character is necessary to achieve a higher rating. While it may appeal to those seeking an approachable bourbon, enthusiasts may need to catch up to the complexity and depth they crave.
Stellum Bourbon, born from the innovative minds at Barrell Craft Spirits, is a commendable attempt to offer a more accessible option. However, it needs to deliver a genuinely memorable bourbon experience. With room for improvement in terms of depth and complexity, it's a bourbon that may find a place on the shelf for casual sipping or a mixed drink but may not be the first choice for those seeking a truly exceptional dram. Cheers!
The Details:
Proof: 115 • Mashbill: Undisclosed • Distillery: Indian, Tennessee, Kentucky • Aged: NAS • Price: $56
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 3 • Palate: 3 • Finish: 3 • Uniqueness: 2 • Value: 4 • Overall: 3
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 