BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon Review

Distillery: Distilled in Tennessee (See below)

Proof: 111.0 (55.5% ABV)

Age: Twelve Years and Ten Months

Mashbill: 84% Corn, 8% Rye, 8% Malted Barley

MSRP: $149

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Something Old Made Strikingly New

BHAKTA Spirits is the brainchild of Raj Bhakta, the provocative entrepreneur best known as the founder of WhistlePig.  After selling his stake in that pioneering rye whiskey company, Bhakta turned his attention toward a new mission: reviving the lost art of vintage spirits.  In 2020, he founded BHAKTA Spirits with a focus on Armagnac, introducing a portfolio of numbered expressions (aka vintages) that features single-year distillates—an approach more commonly associated with wine not whiskey. That concept of vintage labeling is now a hallmark of the brand.

BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon is a prime example of this philosophy.  Distilled in Tennessee and aged for twelve years and ten months, it represents the brand’s first venture into what you might call “vintage bourbon”.  While the distillery is not officially named, the mashbill—84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley—is identical to that used at Cascade Hollow Distillery, home of George Dickel.  That, combined with the stated Tennessee origin and the profile of the whiskey, makes it seem probable that Cascade Hollow is the source.

To complete the expression, the bourbon undergoes a in Armagnac casks. This Secondary Finishing accomplishes more than just putting lipstick on a pig.  Armagnac barrels contribute deep, fruit-forward complexity.  The oak used for Armagnac also brings additional spice, earthiness, and tannin.  Bottled at a punchy 111 proof, BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon invites enthusiasts to experience something new that has notes of the familiar.

The whiskey garnered critical attention, earning a Gold Medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition—one of the most respected awards in the industry.  Judged blind by a panel of seasoned experts, the medal affirms that BHAKTA’s commitment to vintage transparency and cask finishing is more than a branding exercise—it’s delivering exceptional quality in the glass.

While competitions are important, at Bourbon Inspector, we don’t take those into account when tasting and rating expressions.  Let’s see how BHAKTA 2011 holds up in our glass…

BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.3/5

Vanilla and cherry lead the way, followed by light notes of sweet navel orange.  The fruit component adds brightness without overshadowing the bourbon’s deep and traditional aromas.

Palate – 4/5

A rich and evolving Palate begins with oak and nutty character, quickly joined by layers of rich leather and pecan pralines. A delicate note of rose petals adds unexpected floral lift, offering complexity that plays well against the whiskey’s warmth and proof.

Finish – 4/5

The finish is full with endurance that unfolds into a cool mint spice and seasoned oak.  A surprising dash of apple cider vinegar appears on the tail end—bringing a tart, Palate-awakening contrast that leaves a lasting impression.

Value – 4/5

At $149, this vintage release carries a premium price tag.  Virtually all casual drinkers and most enthusiasts can’t justify that price point.  But those who value age, transparency of sourced liquid, and a distinctive branding concept, BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon delivers a compelling proposition—a brand that stands apart from more conventional releases in a similar price tier., the complexity is impressive. Enthusiasts with a desire for grain-forward whiskey, Pennsylvania rye heritage, or heirloom agriculture will find this bottle well worth the price.

BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon Review: The Verdict

BHAKTA 2011 Bourbon brings vintage identity and substantial maturity to the American whiskey scene. With its nearly 13 years of age and likely roots in one of Tennessee’s most respected distilleries, it offers a layered, evocative pour. The unique vintage presentation reinforces BHAKTA’s role not just as a whiskey producer but more of a whiskey artist. Shop here.

Verdict – 4/5

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