The Craft: A Beautiful Collision of Time Aging

This expression is RD1 Spirit’s first exploration to marry the craft of traditional barrel-aged bourbon with modern finishing techniques focusing on unique wood.

French Oak, commonly known for its complimentary aging to cognac and wine, is considered an elite wood due to its tightness of grain and depth of flavor complexity. This oak comes from the great five forests of Central France. It is seasoned for two to three years in Northern California and then cut, milled and toasted to our specifications.

Simultaneously, RD1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon was aging in new American Oak barrels. After 4+ years, we inserted French Oak wood staves into the barrel for additional aging. The French Oak beautifully rounds out flavors and develops a mellow, easy drinking bourbon.

The Experience: Sophisticated Kentucky Bourbon

A rich mouthfeel with caramel front and center on the palate supported by dark cherries and sweet oak. Finishes with dark chocolate and dries to oak with a touch of smoke.

If traditional tasting notes aren’t your style, you may…

See – Your statement gold watch

Smell – Sunday brunch at the resort

Taste – Award-winning French toast

Feel – The camaraderie of a celebratory dinner with clients

The Buzz: What Others Are Saying

International Wine & Spirits Competition: “The nose unfolds with inviting aromas of vanilla and wood sugars. On the palate, a delightful blend of rich honey, ginger cake, and sweet starchy fruit. Soft, lingering finish.” September 2024

Forbes article by Joseph V Micallef: : “This bourbon is robust and full-bodied on the palate, showcasing flavors of butterscotch, honey, and baking spices. The influence of French oak, which introduces a smooth, creamy texture and hints of tannins, cocoa, and dried fruit, balances the bourbon. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of oak spice, vanilla, and a touch of toasted almonds. It leaves a luxurious and complex aftertaste that invites another sip.” August 2024

Bartender Spirits Awards: “Classic bourbon notes of orchard fruits, caramel, baking spices, with some dried mint and oregano sneaking into the background. Palate of dry oaky tannin, and a hint of sweetness from the corn.” June 2024

NOLA Spirits Competition: “Beautiful viscosity…baking spices intensify on the palate…the finish is long, earthy and spiced with black pepper and nutmeg.” August 2024

2024 Los Angeles Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge: “Brown sugar oats. Very easy to drink and savor. Best in Class in Special Barrel Finished category. Double Gold!” March 2024

The Tasting Panel: “This four-year-aged whiskey is refined in woody character that follows throughout on a smooth, elegant palate of balanced sweetness and texture. French oak staves are used, adding notes of chocolate-covered cherry, maple, and toasted oak.” November 2023

USA Ratings: “A small batch bourbon with balanced butterscotch, baking spice, and toffee notes. Delicate hints of leather and crème brûlée on the nose, leading to a palate of sweet custard and spice.” August 2023

John Barleycorn Awards: “Superbly sippable!” June 2023

Ultimate Spirits Challenge : “Sturdy aromas of cigar box, baking spices, and maple are classic and spicy. In the mouth the flavors are driven by leather and grains, all beautifully integrated with soft peachy undertones. The coconut from the French oak comes through gently on the finish.” June 2023

Fred Minnick’s Ascot Awards: “Cool, fresh flavorful oak notes with hints of spice and citrus. Orange oils, mint and all sorts of perfumed deliciousness, and a dry finish like the final notes of a great orchestral piece.” May 2023