A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength: An Honest Review

Some bourbons are quiet and simple. Others are an event. They command your attention with a complex aroma, a rich and layered palate, and a finish that stays with you long after the glass is empty. A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is definitely an event. Bottled straight from hand-selected barrels after a decade or more of aging, this is a bourbon that delivers a powerful and rewarding tasting experience. It’s a bold, unfiltered spirit designed for those who appreciate deep flavors of cherry, toasted oak, and warm caramel. This guide is your ticket to that experience. We’ll walk through the official tasting notes, explore ideal food pairings, and even suggest some classic cocktails that can stand up to its incredible character.

Key Takeaways

• It's All in the Details: A. Smith Bowman's unique character comes from a rare triple distillation process for smoothness and a non-chill filtered approach that preserves its rich texture. Each batch is a carefully curated blend of barrels aged for at least ten years.
• Find Your Perfect Sip: This is a high-proof bourbon, so start by tasting it neat to appreciate its full character. Then, add a few drops of water to soften the heat and open up new layers of flavor like dark fruit and spice.
• Enjoy It Now, Collect It for Later: The bourbon's bold profile makes it an excellent base for classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned. Because each release is limited and unique, it's also a fantastic bottle to add to your collection for a future special occasion.

Discover A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength

If you're looking for a bourbon that delivers an unfiltered, powerful, and deeply complex experience, A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is one you need to know. This isn't just another bottle on the shelf; it's a masterclass in craftsmanship, born from a rich history and a meticulous production process. It represents the purest expression of what the distillery can create, offering a bold flavor profile that stands out in the world of American whiskey. Before we get into the tasting notes, let's explore what makes this particular bourbon so special, from its Virginia heritage to the very definition of "cask strength." Understanding the story behind the spirit makes the first sip that much more rewarding.

Virginia's Bourbon Roots

Long before bourbon became synonymous with Kentucky, Virginia had its own deep-rooted whiskey traditions. A. Smith Bowman Distillery is a cornerstone of that history. Founded in 1935, just after the repeal of Prohibition, the distillery has spent decades perfecting its craft. It stands as one of Virginia's oldest and most respected producers, a true pioneer that helped shape the state's reputation for high-quality spirits. This legacy isn't just about age; it's about a commitment to quality that has been passed down through generations. When you pour a glass of A. Smith Bowman, you're tasting a piece of American whiskey history that has been carefully preserved and refined over time.

What is Cask Strength Bourbon?

You’ve probably seen "cask strength" or "barrel proof" on a label, but what does it actually mean? Simply put, it means the bourbon is bottled straight from the barrel, with nothing taken away and no water added to dilute it. Most whiskeys are proofed down with water before bottling to reach a standard alcohol by volume (ABV), typically around 40-50%. Cask strength expressions, however, are presented in their most authentic form, usually ranging from 55% to 60% ABV or even higher. This process preserves the intense, concentrated flavors developed during aging, offering a richer, more robust tasting experience for those who want to enjoy the bourbon exactly as the distiller intended.

The Importance of Hand-Selected Barrels

Creating an exceptional cask strength bourbon isn't as simple as just picking any barrel. For A. Smith Bowman, it’s an art form. The Cask Strength Bourbon is the product of a year-long tasting process where Distiller David Bock and his team meticulously sample and evaluate countless barrels. Only the most exceptional ones—those that display a perfect balance of flavor, complexity, and character—are hand-selected for the final blend. This careful curation ensures that every batch is a unique and high-quality expression. It’s a testament to the distillery's dedication to craftsmanship, making each release a rare and hard-to-find treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

How A. Smith Bowman Crafts Its Bourbon

The magic behind A. Smith Bowman’s bourbon isn’t a single secret ingredient; it’s a deep-seated commitment to a process that honors tradition while pursuing exceptional quality. Every bottle is a testament to the distillery's patient and deliberate approach. While many modern distilleries focus on speed and volume, A. Smith Bowman takes its time, understanding that great bourbon can't be rushed. This philosophy is championed by Master Distiller David Bock, who personally tastes and selects the barrels that will eventually become their celebrated Cask Strength release.

This hands-on method ensures that every step, from distillation to aging, is performed with intention. The distillery combines unique distillation techniques with a refusal to cut corners, resulting in a spirit that is both powerful and nuanced. It’s a process that respects the raw ingredients—the corn, rye, and malted barley—and aims to draw out the richest, most authentic flavors possible. Exploring their methods gives you a greater appreciation for the complex and rewarding whiskey that ends up in your glass. Let's look at the key stages that make this bourbon so special.

The Triple Distillation Process

While most bourbon is distilled twice, A. Smith Bowman famously uses a triple distillation process, a method more common in Irish whiskey. This extra step helps create a smoother, more refined spirit from the very beginning. The distillery uses a combination of stills, including a traditional copper pot still affectionately named "Mary." This allows them to carefully manage the distillation, stripping out harsher elements while retaining the flavorful compounds that give the bourbon its character. This meticulous technique produces a cleaner, more elegant base spirit, which is the perfect canvas for the aging process to work its magic.

What is Non-Chill Filtering?

You’ll often see “non-chill filtered” on premium bourbon labels, and it’s a sign of quality. When whiskey is chilled, certain natural fatty acids and oils can clump together and make the liquid look cloudy. Chill-filtering removes these particles to ensure the spirit is always crystal clear. A. Smith Bowman, however, chooses to skip this cosmetic step. By bottling their Cask Strength bourbon without chill-filtering, they preserve all of those flavorful oils. This results in a richer texture, a fuller mouthfeel, and a more complex taste profile that truly represents the spirit as it came out of the barrel.

Aging and Why Every Batch is Unique

Like all straight bourbons, A. Smith Bowman is aged in new, charred oak barrels. The Cask Strength expression spends a decade or more resting in the wood, allowing it to soak up incredible flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spice while mellowing the alcohol's heat. Because no two oak trees are identical, each barrel imparts a slightly different character to the whiskey inside. For each batch of Cask Strength, Master Distiller David Bock hand-selects a small number of these exceptional, mature barrels. This careful selection process means that every release is a unique snapshot in time, making each bottle a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts.

A Guide to Tasting A. Smith Bowman

This is where the real fun begins—the tasting. Pouring a glass of A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is an experience for all the senses. Because each batch is unique, the exact notes can vary slightly, but you can always expect a bold, complex, and beautifully balanced profile. This isn't just any whiskey; it's a carefully crafted spirit that tells a story with every sip.

To get the most out of your tasting, I recommend using a proper tasting glass, like a Glencairn, which helps concentrate the aromas. Pour a small amount, give it a gentle swirl, and take your time. Notice the color, smell the aromas, take a small sip, and let it coat your palate before you swallow. Pay attention to how the flavors evolve and the feeling it leaves behind. This step-by-step process helps you appreciate the incredible craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. Let's walk through what you can expect from this exceptional Virginia bourbon.

Aroma and Appearance

Before you even take a sip, take a moment to appreciate the bourbon's appearance. In the glass, A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength typically has a deep, rich amber or mahogany color, a visual cue of its time spent aging in oak barrels. Give the glass a swirl and watch the "legs" or "tears" slowly trail down the side—a sign of its viscosity and high proof.

Now, bring the glass to your nose. The aroma is complex and inviting. You might pick up notes of rich leather, sweet plums, and a hint of crisp apple. Other common scents include deep cherry and toasted oak, layered with warm caramel. It’s a sophisticated bouquet that prepares you for the rich flavors to come.

The Palate: Layers of Flavor

The first sip is where the magic happens. This is what we call the "palate," or the way the bourbon tastes and feels in your mouth. A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength delivers a full-bodied and wonderfully layered experience. You’ll likely taste an initial wave of rich stone fruits like plum, which then unfolds into sweeter notes of maple syrup and milk chocolate. Some batches reveal a delicate raspberry chocolate flavor, balanced by a touch of warming cinnamon. It’s a complex profile that has a similar richness to a fine brandy, yet remains distinctly a bourbon. Each sip seems to reveal something new.

The Finish: A Lasting Impression

The "finish" is the lingering taste and sensation after you've swallowed the bourbon. A truly great whiskey leaves a lasting, pleasant impression, and A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength certainly delivers. The finish is often described as remarkably smooth for such a high-proof spirit. You might notice a final, crisp apple note that cleanses the palate, followed by a gentle, peppery warmth. It leaves you with a fresh, satisfying feeling that invites you back for another sip. It’s a memorable conclusion to a beautifully complex tasting journey, making it a standout in the world of premium spirits.

Find Your Perfect Proof

One of the defining features of this bourbon is that it's bottled at "cask strength." This means it comes straight from the barrel, uncut and without any water added to lower the alcohol content. The proof varies from batch to batch, but it’s always high. This preserves the bourbon's most intense and natural flavors. It’s also "non-chill-filtered," a process that ensures the natural oils and fatty acids remain, contributing to a richer mouthfeel and deeper flavor. For those who appreciate a bold, authentic pour, cask strength expressions are often considered the pinnacle of rare and hard-to-find spirits.

What the Experts Say

When a bourbon generates as much buzz as A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength, you know the people behind it are doing something right. The distillery itself notes that each release is the culmination of a year-long tasting process to find and blend the absolute best barrels from their warehouse. According to Distiller David Bock, the fourth release was aged for a minimum of ten years before being bottled at a staggering 139.7 proof.

This isn't just a high-proof bourbon for the sake of it; it's a carefully constructed spirit designed to deliver a powerful and memorable experience. Experts point out that it hits all the right notes for a premium bourbon: a significant age statement, an uncut and unfiltered proof, and an impactful flavor profile that stands out in a crowded field. It’s a bottle that commands attention from the moment you see it on the shelf.

What the Critics Think

Independent critics and bourbon lovers tend to agree that this is a special bottle. Many have even compared it to some of the most sought-after whiskeys in the world, like George T. Stagg, which is high praise. The consensus is that A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength delivers the bold, complex flavors you’d expect from a top-tier bourbon. Reviewers often mention that while it definitely drinks "hot" due to the high proof, the intensity is matched by a rich and rewarding taste. If you enjoy a bourbon that makes a statement, this one is certainly worth considering, especially if you can find it at its suggested retail price.

Price and Where to Find It

Here’s the tricky part: getting your hands on a bottle. A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is a limited-availability release from Virginia, which means it’s notoriously difficult to find. The distillery typically releases it through a lottery system, and the suggested retail price is around $99.99. Because of its rarity and high demand, you’ll often see it for much more on the secondary market. Your best bet is to keep an eye on specialty retailers or check online stores that curate a selection of Rare & Hard To Find bottles. It’s a hunt, but for many bourbon fans, the reward is well worth the effort.

Limited Release Details

What makes this bourbon so coveted is the story behind each batch. This isn't a mass-produced spirit; it's a limited edition that showcases the art of blending. The process involves tasting barrels throughout the year to identify the ones that have reached their peak. After aging for at least 10 years, these hand-selected barrels are blended to create a unique, one-of-a-kind profile for that year's release. This meticulous approach means that no two batches are exactly alike, turning each bottle into a time capsule of the distillery's best work. It’s a true connoisseur's bourbon and a standout among American spirits.

How to Best Enjoy Your Bourbon

Once you have a bottle of A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength, the real fun begins: figuring out how you like to drink it. There’s no single right way, but a few simple approaches can help you appreciate every complex note this bourbon has to offer. The goal is to find what you enjoy most, whether that’s savoring it on its own or using it as the base for a fantastic cocktail. Experimenting is part of the process, and it’s how you’ll discover your personal preference for enjoying high-proof, flavorful spirits. Let’s walk through a few popular methods to get you started on your tasting journey.

Sipping It Neat or on the Rocks

For a bourbon crafted with such deliberate care, the best first step is to try it neat. Pouring an ounce or two into a glass at room temperature allows you to experience the whiskey exactly as the distillers intended. A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is a blend of the distillery's best barrels, and sipping it neat lets you appreciate the full spectrum of its aroma and flavor without any dilution. If you prefer your drink chilled, try it on the rocks. We recommend using a single large ice cube or sphere, as it will melt more slowly than smaller cubes, cooling your bourbon without watering it down too quickly and muting its character.

Add Water to Open Up Flavors

It might sound counterintuitive, but adding a few drops of water to a cask-strength bourbon can actually enhance its flavor. This is a common practice among master distillers and seasoned whiskey drinkers for a reason. A small amount of water can break the surface tension of the liquid, releasing aromatic compounds and "opening up" the nose. You might notice new notes of smoke or spice that were less apparent before. Start with just a few drops from a straw or dropper, give the glass a gentle swirl, and take a sip. This simple step can transform your tasting experience and reveal hidden layers within the whiskey, making it a bit more approachable if the high proof is initially intense.

Great Food Pairings for Bourbon

Bourbon’s rich profile of caramel, vanilla, and oak makes it a fantastic partner for certain foods. The key is to find flavors that complement the spirit without overpowering it. Dark chocolate is a classic choice for a reason. To get the most out of the pairing, take a sip of the bourbon first and let the flavors coat your palate. Then, take a bite of the chocolate and notice how the two interact. The bitterness of the chocolate can draw out the sweetness in the bourbon. Other great pairings include aged cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda, salted nuts, and cured meats. The sweet and savory notes of the food can highlight different aspects of the bourbon, creating a truly delicious experience.

Make Classic Cocktails

While A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is fantastic on its own, its bold character makes it an incredible base for cocktails. The high proof means its rich flavors of cherry, vanilla, and toasted oak won't get lost when mixed with other ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned home bartender or just starting to build your bar cart, this bourbon provides a solid foundation for a wide range of drinks. From timeless recipes to creative new concoctions, you can craft sophisticated drinks for any occasion, whether it's a quiet night in or a lively gathering with friends.

Traditional Recipes to Try

A great bourbon is the soul of many classic cocktails. Think of an Old Fashioned, where the spirit’s complexity is sweetened with a touch of sugar and balanced by bitters. Or a Manhattan, where it pairs beautifully with sweet vermouth. Because cask strength bourbon is so robust, it holds its own against dilution from ice, ensuring your last sip is as flavorful as your first. Use it as your go-to for these timeless recipes to create savory and sophisticated drinks for any special occasion or end-of-day treat. A quality whiskey is always the right place to start.

Modern Twists on Old Favorites

Once you’ve mastered the classics, it’s fun to play with the formula. A simple twist can completely transform a familiar drink. Try making an Old Fashioned with maple syrup instead of a sugar cube for a rich, autumnal flavor, or add a splash of coffee liqueur for a bold take on a Manhattan. You could even infuse your bourbon with spices like cinnamon or star anise for a few days to create a custom spirit. These small adjustments are a great way to impress guests and find a new favorite drink that’s uniquely yours.

Seasonal Cocktail Ideas

Using seasonal ingredients is one of the best ways to make your cocktails feel fresh and exciting. In the summer, a bourbon smash with fresh watermelon and rosemary is incredibly refreshing and highlights the spirit's versatility. Muddle fresh berries or mint to create a vibrant julep. In the colder months, lean into warming flavors. A hot toddy made with A. Smith Bowman is a perfect winter companion, or you can create a festive punch with apple cider and a cinnamon stick. For those days you want a perfect drink without the work, you can always explore some excellent Ready-To-Drink Cocktails.

How to Collect and Store Your Bourbon

Starting a bourbon collection is a fantastic way to explore the world of whiskey, and a bottle like A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is an excellent centerpiece. Because it’s a limited release, it’s not just a great drink but also a special find. Whether you’re looking to save a bottle for a special occasion or build a library of unique spirits, collecting is a rewarding hobby. The key is knowing what makes a bottle worth collecting and how to care for it once you have it. Proper storage ensures that when you finally decide to open that prized bottle, it tastes just as incredible as the day it was corked.

Is It a Good Collector's Item?

Absolutely. What makes a bourbon a great collector's item often comes down to rarity and demand, and A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength has both. As a limited-edition release, it’s not something you can just pick up at any time. You might need to keep an eye out for special sales events or even enter a lottery for a chance to buy it. This scarcity makes it highly sought after by enthusiasts. It’s the kind of bottle that’s perfect for people who enjoy strong, bold, and older whiskeys. Its reputation makes it a standout piece in any collection and a truly impressive special gift for a fellow bourbon lover.

Store Your Bourbon Properly

Once you’ve secured a special bottle, you want to make sure you store it correctly. Unlike wine, bourbon bottles should always be stored upright. Storing them on their side can cause the high-proof alcohol to eat away at the cork over time, which can spoil the whiskey. Find a cool, dark place with a stable temperature, like a closet or a cabinet, away from direct sunlight. Light and heat are the enemies of good bourbon, as they can cause the spirit to evaporate and its flavors to degrade. Thankfully, a high-proof, unfiltered bourbon like this one is quite resilient, but proper storage will keep it in perfect condition for years to come.

Tips for Starting Your Collection

If you’re just beginning your collection, the best advice is to start with what you love to drink. A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength is a perfect starting point if you already appreciate complex, full-flavored whiskey. From there, you can branch out. Try different expressions from the same distillery or explore other craft producers. A great way to discover new and interesting bottles is by joining a subscription club, which can introduce you to spirits you might not have found otherwise. Most importantly, have fun with it. A collection should be a reflection of your personal taste and the joy of discovery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength a good choice for someone new to high-proof bourbon? While its high proof can be intense, it's an excellent bourbon to grow with. I'd suggest starting with a very small pour. Try it neat first to get a sense of its true character, then add a few drops of water. This will lower the alcohol's intensity and help you pick out the complex flavors of plum, chocolate, and spice. It’s a great way to train your palate and discover how you best enjoy a powerful, well-crafted spirit.

What does triple distillation actually do for the flavor of a bourbon? Think of it as an extra step of refinement before the aging process even begins. Most bourbons are distilled twice, but A. Smith Bowman's third distillation helps create a smoother, cleaner spirit. This process removes more of the heavier, harsher elements, resulting in a base whiskey that is incredibly elegant. When this refined spirit goes into the barrel, it allows the pure, rich flavors from the charred oak—like caramel, vanilla, and cherry—to shine through more clearly.

Why does each batch of this bourbon taste slightly different? The variation between batches comes down to the art of barrel selection. No two oak barrels are exactly alike; each one imparts its own unique character to the whiskey aging inside. For every release of Cask Strength, the master distiller tastes and hand-selects a small number of the most exceptional barrels from the warehouse. Because a different combination of barrels is chosen each time, every batch offers a distinct flavor profile, making each bottle a unique expression of the distillery's craft.

You mentioned adding water. How much is the right amount? There's no exact formula, as it's all about personal preference. The goal is to enhance the flavor, not to water it down. I recommend starting with just two or three drops from a straw or an eyedropper. Give the glass a swirl and take a sip. You might notice the aroma opens up and new flavors emerge. If it still feels too intense, add another drop or two until you find the balance that tastes best to you.

Besides the classics, what's another great cocktail for a bold bourbon like this? A Boulevardier is a fantastic choice. It’s a simple and sophisticated cocktail made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. The robust, full-bodied profile of A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength stands up beautifully to the bitter notes of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth. The result is a perfectly balanced, spirit-forward drink where the bourbon’s rich character remains the star of the show.