I’d like to thank Heritage Distilling Company for providing these samples with no strings attached.
Sorry about missing last week. I was having a mental health crisis brought on by homophobic comments left on the site. I don’t allow them to be posted, but I still have to see them. And mean comments are never fun—especially for someone who struggles with mental health on a good day. Even more so these days, when everyone seems angry and determined to “win” every conversation. Just remember, there’s a real person on the other side of the screen. Be kind.
Anyway, you’re not here for a lecture—you’re here to read about bourbon. So let’s get to it.
Tonight’s bourbons come from Heritage Distilling Co. out of Gig Harbor, Washington. They’re veteran co-founded and have built a solid reputation in the craft spirits world, racking up awards for ten straight years from the American Distilling Institute. As one of the biggest craft distilleries on the West Coast, they continue expanding through traditional sales channels and the Tribal Beverage Network—an interesting partnership with Native American tribes to create branded distilleries and tasting rooms. It’s a unique approach that not only grows their business but also supports tribal communities in the process.
These bourbons are part of Heritage Distilling Co.'s Service to America Salute™ line, which pays tribute to those who serve. Each edition honors a different community and raises funds for related charities.
Let’s dig in and see how they taste, shall we?
Heritage Distilling Co. Service to America Salute™ Whiskey - War Dogs
Purchase Info: This bottle was provided by the producer for review purposes. The suggested retail price is $95 for a 750 mL bottle. As of writing, it’s available for purchase on the HDC website.
Price per Drink (50 mL): $6.33
Details: 49.3% ABV. Mashbill: 78% Corn, 12% Rye, 10% Barley. 5 years old. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Nose: Brown sugar, almond, cinnamon, and fresh mint.
Mouth: Cinnamon, oak, almond and mint.
Finish: Warm, sweet, and medium in length, with notes of almond/cherry, mint, and cinnamon.
Thoughts: This is pretty tasty. It's just a good, solid bourbon. Sweet on the finish. Warm in the mouth. I like it.
Heritage Distilling Co. Service to America Salute™ Whiskey - Battle of Iwo Jima 80th Anniversary
Purchase Info: This bottle was provided by the producer for review purposes. The suggested retail price is $95 for a 750 mL bottle. As of writing, it’s currently sold out on the HDC website, but you can sign up to be notified when available.
Price per Drink (50 mL): $6.33
Details: 52.5% ABV. Distilled by Heritage Distilling Co.
Nose: Black tea, cinnamon, and citrus.
Mouth: Cinnamon red hots, nougat, and a touch of chocolate.
Finish: Warm and on the longer side of medium. Lingering notes of cinnamon and black tea.
Thoughts: Very warm—think Cinnamon Red Hots or Atomic Fireball candies. Lots of cinnamon. The note I’m describing as black tea on the nose and finish is the same as the one I call nougat in the mouth. It just presents differently in different areas. Since I’m not a fan of black tea, this gets a neutral rating. And as we all know, a neutral rating doesn’t mean anything is wrong with it—it just isn’t meshing with my palate. A lot of folks will like this one, though. It’s rich and sweet.
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