Amaretto | Sweet potato | Maple syrup | Charred oak

Amaretto | Charred oak | Sweet oak | Barrel-aged maple syrup | Malt

Molasses | Roasted squash | Coffee bean | Light smoke | Touch of s’mores

Though Chattanooga Whiskey Maple Syrup Cask Finished Bourbon is the 7th release in their Barrel Finishing Series, as always, Chattanooga Whiskey puts their unique spin on the product.

According to the company, they selected late harvest maple syrup casks from Michigan, “known for their small batch, kettle-cooked complexity – especially in the final draws of the season,”  and filled with “old growth, late harvest syrup.” Chattanooga then uses their two high malt bourbon mashbills with sweet potatoes mixed in for good measure. This is one maple finished bourbon that is far from “just another maple finished bourbon.”

Right from the start, which is then followed through the rest of the sip, malt influence makes a statement. This gives the whiskey a distinct taste and helps combat the intrusiveness of the strong influence maple syrup typically has on a bourbon. In fact, the maple flavor is quite tempered and very well integrated.

The combination of Chattanooga's particular style of high-malt bourbon, combined with maple syrup, results in a noticeable amaretto flavor. Combined with charred oak found in the nose and palate, it works exceedingly well. The finish takes everything a bit further, adding molasses, roasted squash, coffee bean, light smoke, and a touch of s’mores to the mix. Despite everything going on, it all comes together and is incredibly well-integrated - surprisingly so. Maple-finished bourbons aren’t for everyone, but this one might help build bridges.