One of the brands we think people will only continue to hear talked about in 2024 and beyond is BHAKTA Spirits. We loved their 2013 Rye and last year’s 2013 Bourbon. We think this just might be the best one they’ve done, especially if you like Armagnac (or finished bourbon at all). Over the last few years, the former founder of Whistle Pig has been making a splash in Armagnac. Today, Raj Bhakta and BHAKTA Spirits are back with another Armagnac Finished Bourbon. This 9-year 99% corn bourbon underwent a 125-day secondary cask finish in French Oak barrels selected from Château BHAKTA’s finest stock—chosen for their pedigree, these casks have each held BHAKTA’s award-winning 1973 Armagnac vintage.

We’ve tasted through a lot of the 99/1 corn/malted barley mash bill lately. There’s something special in how it marries with a finishing barrel. This gives even more credence to adding the vintage or barrel lots. The bourbon is sweet and viscous. Combining that with the dried fruit from the Armagnac is phenomenal.

Tasting Notes: Nose: Grassy & herbaceous with toasted oak and caramel. Palate: Charred oak, maraschino and maple syrup. Finish: Sweet almond and raisin rum cake.

BHAKTA 2014 is a PRE-ORDER item. It will ship in 2-3 weeks.