Starlight Cigar Batch "The Joy Of Starlight, Ep. 6" Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Brazilian Amburana Barrels The Prime Barrel Pick #64

The highly anticipated Cigar Batch from our dear partners at Starlight Distillery has arrived. While another distillery may have coined the "Cigar Blend/Batch" term, the team at Starlight has added their unique touch to the expression by employing Amburana wood as a finishing cask. This diverges from the usual quadruple cask finish of Port, Sherry, Armagnac, and Cognac associated with most cigar blends. Starlight instead exclusively uses Amburana wood, bestowing a singular and extraordinary flavor upon the whiskey.

The influence of the finishing barrels on the final product depends on how often they've been used to "finish" the bourbon. The more usage, the subtler the effect on the final taste. With the Amburana finish, the flavor impact from first-fill to subsequent uses decreases dramatically. First-fill casks are typically more flavorful and robust, so we wanted this "Cigar" expression to pair well with a quality cigar. We, therefore, waited for the opportunity to use a first-fill cask, and the resulting whiskey is truly fantastic.

On the nose, notes of charred citrus peel, succulent dates, aged leather, and dried tobacco form the heart of the aroma. These deep, rustic undertones beautifully offset the zesty orange highlights punctuating the scent profile. These are hints of cinnamon stick, nuttiness, ripe apple, and malt infusion, weaving a rich sensory mosaic. Subtler nuances of grain, toffee, and light clover add an extra layer of complexity, resulting in a nose that is delightfully multifaceted and undeniably unique.

On the palate, a fusion of culinary spices, tobacco leaf, and nutty undertones of sandalwood quickly take center stage. Soon, Starlight’s distinct distillate unfurls, marked by soft notes of freshly baked bread, cereal grain, and a sharp, young oak. The overall flavor profile is strikingly distinctive, demanding the drinker's attention. The taste journey surprises with subtle undertones of vanilla chai, honey, and milk chocolate. Its earthly depth, juxtaposed with the prominent tobacco leaf note, may not appeal to everyone. Still, the impressive integration of flavors and the intrigue it stirs are noteworthy.

Aged for 5 years+, this barrel was bottled at 111.9 proof making it a dangerous (in a good way) sipper.