Couple of new items here today. First, we are tasting a Bourbon none of us has tried before or even heard of, Old Soul, Small Batch, High Rye, Bourbon Whiskey. Second, it is made by Cathead Distillery, which we have never heard of. From their website, “The first legal distillery in the state of Mississippi, Cathead was founded in 2010 by friends and blues fans, Austin Evans and Richard Patrick.” And to show how much we know, also from the site, ” Cathead Distillery was named a 2020 James Beard semi-finalist for Outstanding Spirits Producer and is celebrated for its authentic products and a strong commitment to its community.” Guess they are somewhat of a big deal.
Old Soul Bourbon sells for $45, comes in a very standard-looking corked bottle, can be hard to find, and is 90 proof. No age statement on the bottle, but it is believed to be between 4 and 5 years old. The mash bill is 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. The Bourbon is made from two identical mash bills. One from Cathead and the other from MGP.
The mash bill is interesting; A high rye Bourbon is usually considered as having a mash bill with more than 20% rye, which this does, but barely. A high corn mash bill is having over 80% corn in the mash. So this is almost a high rye/high corn mash bill.
NOSE
Picking up the rye and the corn, which makes sense due to the mash bill. Getting some vanilla upfront as well. Secondary aromas include cinnamon, pepper, and a touch of clove. Ice mutes all of those a bit, but does bring a bit of a cherry scent. Overall, a somewhat mild nose.
TASTE
Pleasant with touches of wood, rye, and pepper. Has an overall sweetness with tastes of honey, caramel, and brown sugar. Lessor flavors include cinnamon, tobacco, and leather. Ice again brought out a bit of cherry fruitiness.
FINISH
Medium with a light sweetness and a bit of spice.
OVERALL
We had no idea what to expect when we bought this. Needless to say, it did not disappoint. All three of us would buy again.
Nose 3.75 out of 5
Taste 7.75 out of 10
Finish 3.25 out of 5
Total score 14.75 out of 20 barrels.
It’s always fun to buy a bottle you have never heard of on just a whim. This is especially true if the bottle is under $50. And it is even more fun if the bottle turns out to be a good buy. All that is what we got with Old Soul High Rye Bourbon. While the finish and the nose were on the mild side, the taste really comes through. Don’t know about you, but the taste is why we drink this stuff.
As stated above, we would all buy this Bourbon again. There is a uniqueness about it and the distillery. It also doesn’t hurt that it tastes pretty good. If you can find it, give Old Soul a try. These old souls certainly liked it.