Thirteenth Colony Cask Strength Southern Bourbon Review

Distillery: Distilled in Indiana—Aged & Bottled by Thirteenth Colony Distillers

Proof: 120.065 (60.33% ABV)

Age: Four to Six Years

Mashbill: 70% Corn, 21% Rye, 9% Malted Barley

MSRP: $90 – $100

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No Gimmicks, Just Strength and Substance

In this cask-strength offering from Thirteenth Colony, we’re looking at a bold, unfiltered, and uncompromising bourbon.  Bottled at a hefty 120.65 proof after 4–6 years of aging in Georgia’s humid climate, this whiskey aims to deliver maximum flavor with a classic Southern character.  Thirteenth Colony may not have national name recognition, but its cask strength release has earned a growing following.

Founded in Americus, Georgia, Thirteenth Colony Distilleries has long positioned itself as a small, independently operated producer focused on quality not scale.  Their whiskeys reflect an approach that mimics their Texas Whiskey brethern—embrace heat-driven aging and a more relaxed production timeline.  With this cask strength bourbon, the distillery leans fully into its regional influences, offering enthusiasts a high-proof bottle that’s aims for richness and authenticity without relying on gimmicks like finishing or glossy marketing.

Let’s see if the whiskey lives up to the promise.

Thirteenth Colony Cask Strength Southern Bourbon Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.3/5

Cherry syrup, angel food cake, and hazelnut notes create a rich first impression on the Nose.  Some light charred oak adds a bit of complexity.  While the first impression is good, the Nose doesn’t evolve much over time.  It’s satisfying but there’s very little movement with time in the glass.

Palate – 4.2/5

Notes of maple goodness and cherry pie filling proceeds quickly into rye spice and buttery vanilla.  The proof stands up front and center but is not overwhelming.  The flavors start to falter mid-Palate more than expected.  It’s enjoyable but not as layered as some cask strength peers in a similar price range.

Finish – 4.1/5

A satisfying, medium-length Finish that matches well with the Palate as maple notes linger along with toasted oak.   There is a gently spiced, somewhat herbal fade, with notes of vanilla, and licorice.  There’s a warming quality without harshness.  It fades a bit quicker than would be expected for its proof point.

Value – 4/5

At $90, this is a strong value for a cask strength bourbon with distinctive character and a solid 4-6 year aging.  You’re not paying a premium for marketing hype.  It delivers flavor and proof at a price point that feels fair—assuming you’re not buying on markup.

Thirteenth Colony’s Cask Strength Bourbon doesn’t rely on flashy packaging or secondary finishes to stake its claim to good whiskey. Aged 4–6 years in the heat of Georgia and bottled at 120.65 proof, this bold Southern expression leans into classic dessert notes, structured oak, and a dense, flavorful palate. We put it to the test to see if this rising craft favorite deserves a spot on your shelf.

Thirteenth Colony Cask Strength Southern Bourbon Review: The Verdict

Confident and bold.  It doesn’t quite push into elite territory.  A touch more dynamics on the Nose and more depth of the Palate could elevate it to a Platinum expression.  Fans of cask strength whiskey will find a lot to like, especially if they can buy it close to MSRP.

Verdict – 4.2/5

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