Lost Lantern High Wire Straight Bourbon Review

Distillery: Distilled by High Wire Distilling Company—Charleston, South Carolina

Proof: 117.4 (58.7% ABV)

Age: Three years

Mashbill: 100% Jimmy Red Corn

MSRP: $120

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Who They Are

It feels like Lost Lantern Whiskey co-founders Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski have cracked a code when it comes to building a unique whiskey brand.

Founded in 2018, Lost Lantern operates as an independent bottler—a concept common in Scotch whisky but rare in American whiskey. Instead of distilling their own spirits, they seek out exceptional barrels from craft distilleries nationwide, releasing limited-edition expressions that showcase unique regional styles.

Transparency is at the heart of Lost Lantern’s business model—every release proudly names the sourced distillery. There’s no hiding behind a private label or disguising that the whiskey is sourced; instead, the distillery name is front and center, making it an essential part of the appeal. This approach not only introduces enthusiasts to unique small-batch bourbons but also builds trust between Lost Lantern and its consumers.

For this release, Lost Lantern partnered with High Wire Distilling Company, a Charleston, South Carolina distillery known for its commitment to heirloom grains. Founded in 2013, High Wire set out to create grain-forward whiskeys that celebrate regional agriculture.

This single-cask selection puts Jimmy Red Corn—a rare, heirloom variety—front and center. Once nearly extinct, Jimmy Red Corn was revived through the efforts of a small group of farmers and distillers, including High Wire, which has championed its use in bourbon-making.

Let’s dive into the glass and see how this unique arrangement and collaboration plays out.

Lost Lantern High Wire Straight Bourbon Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.25/5

For those familiar with Jimmy Red Corn whiskeys, this Lost Lantern expression offers an old friend on the Nose.  It opens with rich caramel corn and sweet buttery cornbread. Notes of honey, toasted oak, and earthy undertones are present.

Palate – 4/5

The first sip delivers a deep, rich corn sweetness that is immediately balanced by an intense, warm spice coming off the proof.  Notes of cotton candy sugar, cinnamon, and roasted pecans emerge mid-palate.  The mouthfeel is dense and oily, making for a full-bodied experience.

Finish – 4/5

The high proof makes itself known here.  A bold, peppery heat lingers along with notes of oak char.  A buttery toffee emerges as the heat fades. An earthiness returns at the very end.

Value – 4/5

At $120, this Lost Lantern release falls firmly in the premium price range, making this a tough pick up for many.  However, for those intrigued by the heirloom grain mashbill, quality of the liquid, combined with the single-cask selection, this is a rewarding buy.

Lost Lantern High Wire Straight Bourbon Review: The Verdict

This Lost Lantern and High Wire collaboration is a fascinating development. The Jimmy Red Corn brings the unique sweet, nutty complexity.While the high proof will challenge some palates, the bold heirloom grain expression is an exciting and rewarding pour.

Verdict – 4/5

Have you tried Lost Lantern’s High Wire release or another release from their lineup? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the Insider Community!

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3