Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, J. Henry & Sons is becoming a distinguished name in the world of bourbon, celebrated for its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. Founded by Joe and Liz Henry, the distillery is located on a family farm that dates back to the 1940s. The Henry family has always been deeply rooted in agriculture, initially focusing on growing high-quality hybrid seed corn. This agricultural heritage laid the foundation for their bourbon production, as they use heirloom red corn to craft their spirits—a nod to their farming legacy and a testament to their dedication to authenticity.
The journey of J. Henry & Sons into the bourbon industry began with a vision to create a unique, Wisconsin-made bourbon that could stand shoulder to shoulder with the best from Kentucky. With the help of bourbon legend Dave Pickerell, they developed a bourbon that speaks to the terroir of Wisconsin, from the grains used to the climate in which it matures. Their bourbons are aged for a minimum of five years, allowing the flavors to develop fully and creating a rich, complex profile that has earned them a loyal following.
Review
This is my second time tasting an entry from their Patton Road series. You can find my review of “The Nutty Professor” here.
🥃120.4 proof
🥃Distilled & aged 5 Years in Dane, WI (Barrel No. 1054 Bottle No. 143)
🥃Mash Bill: 60% Red Heirloom Corn, 14% Heirloom Winter Wheat, 14% Heirloom Spooner Rye, 12% Malted Barley
🥃Sample provided by a friend
🥃Tasted using a Bourbon Real Talk Copita Whiskey Tasting Glass
Appearance
The “Whopper, Texas Ranger” edition greets you with a mesmerizing dark caramel color that hints at the depth and richness to come.
Nose
On the nose, I get a delightful medley of aromas. The inviting scents of chocolate, caramel, and nougat take center. Subtle hints of cinnamon and orange peel weave through, adding a layer of complexity and intrigue.
Palate
My first sip reveals a buttery mouthfeel, setting the stage for a symphony of flavors. Sweet chocolate and caramel make a grand entrance, reminiscent of a rich dessert. This sweetness gracefully transitions into the smooth, malted milk notes, punctuated by the spicy kick of cinnamon Red Hots, which adds an unexpected yet pleasing contrast.
Finish
The finish is short and dry, leaving me with lingering notes of cocoa powder and a slight hint of black pepper. While it may lack the extended sweetness found in some other expressions, it closes the experience on a refined and satisfying note that encourages another sip.
J. Henry & Sons Patton Road Reserve “Whopper, Texas Ranger” is a commendable bourbon that delivers a unique and enjoyable tasting experience. Although it might not reach the candy bar sweetness heights of “The Nutty Professor” entry in this series, it stands firm as a delightful offering that showcases the distillery's skill and creativity. Each sip is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that J. Henry & Sons pours into their creations.
This is a bourbon that leaves a lasting impression. J. Henry & Sons continues to impress with their commitment to quality and innovation, making this cask strength bourbon a solid choice for both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike. I award it a well-deserved 4 out of 5 ⭐️s.
Keep sippin’, my friends! 🥃
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