SMOOTH AMBLER FOUNDERS' CASK STRENGTH SERIES
BOURBON MASHBILL #2
WEST VIRGINIA, USA
Why Buy: This cask-strength, high-octane (117 proof), small-batch bourbon from a family-operated producer that rivals Kentucky's finest represents exceptional value in the craft bourbon category at just under $55 a bottle, and our last offer for Smooth Ambler sold out almost instantly. Add to that the fact that only 900 cases were produced across six batches, and that means: hop on this, STAT.
The Bottling: Blended with a portion of rye and aged for six years in heavily charred casks under the unique influences of the Appalachian climate, this latest installment from Smooth Ambler's critically-acclaimed Founders Cask Strength Series is a highly-anticipated release.
What They're Saying: The critical acclaim for Smooth Ambler's Founders Cask Strength Series speaks volumes. Their rye expression captured Double Gold at the 2022 World Spirits Competition and earned both Best Rye in Show and the Chairman's Trophy at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, along with a remarkable 98-point score.
Our Tasting Notes: A highly drinkable bourbon, but also one of enormous depth and distinction. To call out the various notes that play across the palate— Graham cracker, dark chocolate, cherry, allspice — is almost a misnomer, because the weave here is so fine and subtle. The rye backing (a first for their in-house distilling) adds a distinct spice character that plays perfectly against the corn's natural sweetness, while six years in Char #4 casks bring exceptional refinement. A bourbon of sophistication and charm, and one you’ll want to return to, again and again.
The Mashbill: 71% corn, 21% rye, 8% malted barley.
The Story: "Who is crazy enough to start a whiskey company from scratch, in the hills of West Virginia, in a world filled with hundred-year-old Kentucky distilleries?" That's the question Smooth Ambler's co-founder John Little asked himself when launching this venture with his father-in-law. While they first gained recognition for their expertly sourced Old Scout line, they've been quietly perfecting their own distillation program all along. Little calls this bourbon "a surprising meddling of flavors and geographical superpowers that just work effortlessly" – and he's right. The Appalachian climate and their meticulous attention to detail have created a proud line of bottles that challenges preconceptions about where great bourbon can come from.
ABV: 58.51% (117.2 proof).
Fun Fact: Though its Founders Cask Strength Series is made entirely in-house, Smooth Ambler first gained recognition for its "Old Scout" line of expertly sourced whiskeys, showing it could identify exceptional bourbon before it started making its own.
Our Guarantee: Remember, friends – we always buy and source directly from the distillery, so you can rest assured that your bourbon will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance.