Distillery: Devils River Whiskey Distillery – San Antonio, TX
Proof: 117 (58.5% ABV)
Age: NAS but at least four since no age statement
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Barley
MSRP: $46
Website: https://devilsriverwhiskey.com/
Who They Are
With headwaters at the western fringe of Texas Hill Country and ending in West Texas, near the Mexican border, the Devil’s River is considered by many as one of the most beautiful, unspoiled rivers in all of Texas. Its spring-fed waters flow through limestone as it snakes through rugged ridges and spectacular canyons.
Devil’s River Distilling Company considers the pristine water source as the key ingredient in all their whiskeys, contributing mightily to their unique and award-winning flavor profiles.
Founded in April 2017 with the sole purpose of creating Premium Texas Bourbon that honors the rich and deepening heritage of Texas whiskey making. They have not gone unnoticed, having received numerous awards and accolades, including the San Diego International Spirits Competition, New York International Spirits Competition, Bartender Spirits Awards, and USA Spirits Ratings.
Devils River Barrel Strength Bourbon is a high-rye bourbon bottled at 117-proof, making for a bold and intense flavor experience. The distillery’s chill filtration process softens the finish without compromising the whiskey’s flavor, holding true to the aim of producing a powerful bourbon.
This barrel strength offering is for those who appreciate a strong, flavorful whiskey. Its high-proof and rich flavor profile make it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts. For NOOBS, this is one to proceed with caution and awareness or pitch in a couple splashes of water.
Devils River Barrel Strength Bourbon: Tasting Notes
Nose – 4/5
The Nose opens with a robust blend of pepper and oak, creating a bold and inviting aroma. Some complex hints of fruit, along with subtle notes of vanilla, provide a sweetness. The combination of these creates a well-rounded and intriguing Nose that makes you want to dive in. A word of advice…be patient and let it rest.
Palate – 4.5/5
On the Palate, Devil’s River Barrel Strength Bourbon delivers a powerful and satisfying experience. The initial sip reveals flavors of smooth honey and oak; caramel adds a sweet, buttery richness, followed up by a peppery spice that delivers a bold kick. The balance of sweet and spicy lives in wonderful harmony.
Finish – 3.5/5
The Finish, with peppery spice and oak notes, lingers as the hints of caramel and vanilla add a pleasant sweetness. The high proof steps up and delivers a warm and robust aftertaste. There is only a very faint hint of the quintessential Texas funk.
Value – 4.75/5
With a $46 MSRP, Devil’s River Barrel Strength Bourbon offers excellent value. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this bourbon delivers a tasting experience that will call you back to pulling the cork again and again.
Devils River Barrel Strength Bourbon Review: The Verdict
Verdict – 4.25/5
We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.
Scoring System:
- Platinum – 4.5 – 5
- Gold – 4 – 4.5
- Silver – 3 – 4
- Bronze – <3
Mike Long is a staff writer at Bourbon Inspector and has an Executive Bourbon Steward designation from the Stave and Thief Society. He’s a former “wine guy” who discovered his love for bourbon years back at a spur-of-the-moment bourbon tasting he attended. He also loves traveling throughout America with his wife of over 37 years, Debby.