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30 November, 2011

Virgin Bourbon

Comments : 8 Posted in : Bourbon on by : The Gourmez

Virgin Bourbon
Bardstown, Kentucky
101 Proof

I picked up this bottle of bourbon while it was significantly discounted at my local ABC store. I was out of bourbon, which is a horrible tragedy that must always be addressed. It was only $11 for 750 ml, which means it’s much cheaper than the Woodford Reserve and Bulleit bourbons that I prefer. But I was convinced to try it because I saw that little 7-years-of-age indicator, which I assumed meant it might have some character, and thus, might be a pretty good deal. I was wrong.

Its coloring is burnt orange with a deeper red simmering inside the glass. It smells highly alcoholic—it is 101 proof, folks—but beneath that lurks some lovely peach and caramel undertones. You may not get past the alcohol in the nose, though, and you definitely won’t in the glass, or at least you won’t if your bourbon tastes are like mine. I can really tell the difference in quality compared to the higher grade bourbons. It’s rough on my palate, and I have to force it down. I taste a thin bourbon flavor in between the burning sensations with none of those flavors in the nose that seemed so promising.

Virgin Bourbon, there’s nothing pure about you for me.

Reviewed 6 Nov 11.

8s COMMENTS

8 thoughts on : Virgin Bourbon

  • Jason
    December 28, 2011 at 10:06 am

    I’ve been purchasing VB for several months now because of the reduced cost. I’ve been mixing it with soda, though, and I think the taste is good for that. I only tried a sip a couple times. I purchased some Bullet over the Christmas weekend for a treat. I tried it neat and thought it was very good. Last night I was having some chocolate cake and though a nice neat shot of bourbon would go great with that. I had some VB and am glad I poured a small shot. I had to let it sit in my mouth for about 10 seconds to cool down before drinking it. The alcohol taste is too overpowering. But, as a mixer, it really does the trick 😉

  • December 29, 2011 at 12:46 pm

    I will consider the confidence in Virgin as a mixer! I’m more of a sipper for bourbon, unless it’s a drink like a Manhattan, but the taste of the bourbon’s important in those older cocktails, too, so I don’t think Virgin would be ideal for me. But I’m sure I’ve got some other readers who’d love a cheaper alternative for soda mixing, though!

  • Waydo from the Wild West
    February 25, 2012 at 12:29 am

    Virgin bourbon 101 is a potent whiskey that works well on the rocks and as a mix with coca-cola. The first guy commenting has no idea ? This is good value and is rich with phenol, caramel, burnt sugar , syrup and a hint of spice (rye). 4 of these and you are on you’re way !.. In fact im having one right now ! Enjoy Virgin 101

  • warren
    December 10, 2017 at 11:14 am

    Hi
    Where can i buy 7 year old 101 proof virgin bourbon in new york city?

    • The Gourmez
      December 12, 2017 at 4:19 pm

      Hi Warren! Virgin Bourbon is owned by the same folks who own the Heaven Hill Distillery brands. It’s hard to find info on it, though, because it’s not one of their premium labels! You may try contacting them: http://heavenhilldistillery.com/about-us.php

  • Mike
    February 22, 2019 at 5:18 am

    I love it. Im into the high proof bourbons, usually going for rare breed or similar bottles. Evan has always been a friend to me and his older cousin is now no different. I have had plenty of good whiskey, pappy, stagg, all the wellers. While those are amazing I think that for its price I will happily buy this bottle and keep some around.

    • The Gourmez
      February 23, 2019 at 12:10 am

      Glad you enjoy it!

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