High West continues to push the envelope with regard to quality and unique blends. American Prairie is a blend of 2, 6 and 13 year old Bourbons. This is not American Prairie Reserve, which received many accolades, this is the follow up.
High West American Prairie is a limited release, so it might be somewhat difficult to find, and is bottled at 92 proof in the same cool Western “style” long neck, corked bottle with air bubbles in the glass that would typically be seen in the 1800’s (or so we would believe). This is the same presentation as all of the other High West products. If you do find a bottle it should be selling for around $35.
One note, High West will donate 10% of the profits to the American Prairie Foundation.
NOSE
Todd: Very pleasant with spiced honey, fruit, white pepper and baking spice up front. Behind this lurked a little clove, vanilla, almonds and citrus. Nice!
Ron: Great clean nose with plum, pepper, fruit, almonds and raisin. This is followed by slight scents of cedar, grass and honey.
TASTE
Todd: Again the baking spice, white pepper and citrus that I got on the nose. This is followed by a little raisin, smoke and honey.
Ron: The plum from the nose is by far the most prominent taste. Behind that is citrus, spice, honey and grass. Very good!
FINISH
Todd: Long nutty finish with a touch of bitterness.
Ron: Medium-long with a nice spiciness and a slight burn.
OVERALL
Todd: Really enjoyed American Prairie, makes me sad to know it is a limited release. Also makes me want to seek out the Reserve.
Ron: Great Bourbon! From the multiple aromas and complex taste, this is a no-brainer at $35.
Nose 4.5 out of 5
Taste 9.25 out of 10
Finish 4.25 out of 5
Total 18 out of 20 Barrels
High West continues to impress us here at Talking Bourbon. We have always been a fan and American Prairie delivers. Great drink neat or on the rocks and it’s spice would make for a good cocktail, but we would frown on you for mixing it.
If you can find a bottle of High West American Prairie, buy it! You won’t be disappointed.