Whiskey Shots: A Review of Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

After the impressive success of Green River Full Proof, which I reviewed previously (you can find that review here), Green River has introduced a new bourbon designed to become a staple in bars and restaurants.

Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey made its debut in nine markets last fall, priced at a wallet-friendly MSRP of $21.99 for a liter bottle (I even snagged a bottle this weekend for just $19.99!). This bourbon honors the distillery's rich history while revitalizing today’s cocktail scene, showcasing a flavor profile crafted with bartenders' creativity in mind.

Made from a mash bill of 76% local corn, 15% rye, and 9% malted barley, Green River 1885 is aged for a minimum of four years and bottled at 85 proof (42.5% ABV). Now, let’s dive in and see how it measures up.

Appearance

Green River 1885 presents itself with a beautiful honey-like color, and as I swirl it in the glass, I notice thick, fast legs that suggest a rich mouthfeel.

Nose

The aroma is inviting, featuring notes of caramel and dark cherry that are immediately enticing. Underneath these prominent scents, there are hints of green apple and vanilla, with a faint touch of mint that adds a refreshing twist.

Palate

On the palate, the sweetness of caramel shines through, accompanied by the luscious taste of dark cherries and creamy vanilla. This initial sweetness elegantly transitions to a more tangy profile with sour apple and a subtle kick of black pepper, creating a well-rounded experience.

Finish

The finish is long and satisfying, dominated by lingering apple notes that gradually fade, leaving behind a hint of black pepper that adds a touch of warmth.

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Green River Distilling Co. has successfully achieved their goal with this bourbon. It’s a pleasant bar pour that will likely shine in cocktails, yet it possesses enough character to be enjoyed neat, especially on a weeknight when I prefer lower proofs. Given the quality and the price point, I feel a rating of 3 out of 5 ⭐️s is fair for Green River 1885. This bourbon offers a solid experience that’s worth exploring.

Keep Sippin’, my friends!🥃