Green apple | Citrus | Caramel | Vanilla | Sherry | Baking spices | Light & fruity

Caramel | Vanilla | Pear | Sweet apple |  Nutmeg

Warming spice | Raisin | Light cinnamon | Touch of malt | Seasoned oak | Medium length | Light ethanol aftertaste

As far as I can tell, Frank August is not an actual person, but simply the name of a bourbon brand. That brand is spearheaded by CEO and Co-Founder, Johnathan Crocker, the former denim and fashion executive for AG Jeans and BLDWN. Frank August’s concept isn’t an elaborate backstory but for the bourbon (and bottle) to speak for itself. The minimalist and contemporary designed bottle is your first clue that there’s a high concept in play here. The front of the bottle only features the brand’s name in small print, where the back of the bottle features a removable back label so the bottle can have a second life as a decanter. The cap is equally well designed with a milled thin but wide metal stopper that rests just above the opening of the bottle and makes removing it a strangely satisfying experience. While many consumers take note of bottle design, there are plenty of others that will be suspect of it. So how does the bourbon fare?

Notes of caramel and vanilla are found throughout the bourbon acting as a steady constant and bringing a classic style to the bourbon. From there though, the whiskey looks to expand its horizons. The nose is noticeably light and surprisingly fruity with green apple, citrus, and sherry combining to a pleasant effect. The palate introduces pear and sweet apple for its part, before transitioning to a more baking spices and oaky affair for its finish.

The brand claims for all intent of purposes, that this is a bottled in bond bourbon, but due to contractual obligations couldn’t disclose its DSP number preventing it from featuring it on their label. Comprised of just 10-15 barrels, it's definitely a small batch bourbon that showcases both the rounding off some edges while also allowing it to keep some character more akin to single barrels or very small batches. I can see a lot of people enjoying a sip of Frank August Small Batch Bourbon. It’s very drinkable, inoffensive, and maintains a good balance of classic and semi-unique flavors in its blend. Much like its bottle design, it's delicate and sophisticated. It's a tight package overall that knows what it is, knows what it set out to do, and accomplishes it with precision.