The Chicken Cock Whiskey Range of Whiskeys: A Bourbon Revival
Discovering historic whiskey brands can often feel like stepping back in time. One such brand, Chicken Cock Whiskey, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1856 in Paris, Kentucky. This bourbon revival is a testament to the resilience and quality that has defined American whiskey through the years. Recently, I had a chance to sample their impressive lineup. Here’s a look at Chicken Cock Whiskey’s storied past and detailed tasting notes.
A Storied History of Chicken Cock Whiskey
Chicken Cock Whiskey began its journey in 1856, primarily crafting bourbon in Kentucky. However, the brand faced numerous challenges, including the onset of Prohibition, during which it became a speakeasy favorite, especially at the renowned Cotton Club in Harlem, New York. Smuggled in tin cans, it earned the nickname “The Famous Old Brand.” Unfortunately, a devastating fire post-Prohibition led to its decline, and the brand shut down in the 1950s. In 2012, Grain & Barrel Spirits revived Chicken Cock, returning it to its former glory.
Innovation in Craft Distilling
Craft distilling has played a crucial role in the Bourbon revival, helping to reintroduce premium spirits made with high-quality ingredients. Chicken Cock focuses on small-batch production to ensure that each whiskey reflects its rich heritage. Let’s dive into the tasting notes of their notable offerings.
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon
This bourbon features pronounced aromas of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, accompanied by hints of honey and dried fruit. On the palate, it offers a smooth and well-balanced experience with flavors of toffee, butterscotch, and sweet corn, complemented by baking spices and a touch of dark chocolate. The finish is long, leaving a lingering sweetness with a gentle warmth of oak and spice.
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye
Known for its bold and spicy profile, this rye whiskey delivers aromas of rye bread, black pepper, and candied orange zest, along with caramel, vanilla, and oak. On the palate, it is robust and full-bodied, featuring spicy rye, caramel, and dark chocolate with mid-palate notes of clove, cinnamon, and mint. The finish is long, warming, and full of rye spiciness with lingering caramel and oak.
Chicken Cock Bootlegger’s Reserve
This unique blend of bourbon and rye whiskey offers an aromatic nose of dark chocolate, dried fruits, and toasted oak with hints of vanilla and caramel. The palate is rich and robust, featuring toffee, dark chocolate, dried cherries, and spices. The exceptionally long finish is warm with lingering dark chocolate and oak notes.
Chicken Cock Double Oak Kentucky Whiskey
With aromas of caramel, vanilla, and dark chocolate, this whiskey is full-bodied and flavorful. It offers notes of toffee, sweet corn cake, baking spices, and espresso, with a finish that is long and elegant, showcasing sweetness and gentle warmth.
| Whiskey | Aroma | Flavor | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Straight Bourbon | Caramel, vanilla, toasted oak | Toffee, butterscotch, sweet corn | Sweetness, oak, spice |
| Kentucky Straight Rye | Rye bread, black pepper, orange zest | Spicy rye, caramel, dark chocolate | Rye spiciness, caramel, oak |
| Bootlegger’s Reserve | Dark chocolate, dried fruits, toasted oak | Toffee, dark chocolate, dried cherries | Dark chocolate, oak |
Conclusion: A Proud Legacy Revived
Chicken Cock Whiskey’s resurgence is a celebration of its long-standing heritage and dedication to quality. Each bottle offers a unique, memorable experience that honors its rich past while embracing the innovations of craft distilling. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or new to whiskey, Chicken Cock’s range of high-quality products showcases the essence of a true bourbon revival.
