Kiepersol Distillery

As you drive up the hill to the Kiepersol complex, and start making your way up the winding foot path, you will see a larger than life wine bottle on your right.  Heading that direction leads you to the castle inspired winery tasting room.  However, if you take a left at the unusually large wine bottle out front, you will find yourself able to view, taste, and buy Kiepersol distilled spirits.  

A disclaimer to this spirit review is that we visited the wine tasting room first, which makes for a very relaxed and enjoyable second tasting experience.  But we were certainly able to distinguish the uniqueness and good flavors put before us, as well as take in the words from behind the bar.  The server at the distillery was very knowledgeable not only about the products, but also about the history and production of their offerings.  She was engaging and answered all our questions, even though we were keeping them open a little past the published closing time.

The distillery bottles up a vodka, two rums, and two bourbons.  While we will focus on the bourbon here in this review, I will encourage you to give the rum a look.  I had never thought of rum as being a sipper, but this one could definitely be used as that.  

Jimmy's Straight Bourbon Whiskey is named after Jimmy Hines, a WWII torpedo bomber pilot.  The image of his goggles are on the bottle's label, and are the inspiration for the bold and adventurous flavor profile of the bourbon.  It is 75% corn and presents with a beautiful amber color, reminiscent of a topaz gemstone.  The first aroma is one of vanilla overtones, but after warming slightly, the cinnamon is predominant.  The first taste presents with a nutty and rich quality.  The finish is smooth and long lasting.  Adding a few drops of water bring out the vanilla in aroma and taste.  Over ice, I found the richness to be gone, but the nutty flavor still very much present.  It is bottled at 90 proof, and while I'm sure it would work as a mixer, I would definitely prefer it neat.  

Kiepersol also bottles a 100 proof version of Jimmy's Straight Bourbon Whiskey.  At our visit, it had just been finished, so we bought one, but have yet to open it.  

Taking the time to visit the Kiepersol Distillery is well worth it.  It is a beautiful setting, and the spirits are well produced and full of flavor.  Each bottle's label has a story behind it, which provides another layer of depth to the glass before you.  

Cheers, y'all!

Jimmy's Straight Bourbon Whiskey 90 proof

Color :  topaz gemstone

Aroma:  soft vanilla, cinnamon when warmed

First taste:  smooth and rich nut flavor

Over ice:  thins quickly, but still has flavor