A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Batch 5 is an exceptionally bold 10 Year Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottled at an imposing 137.6 proof (68.8% ABV). Released at cask strength, this mature bourbon showcases concentrated barrel character without dialing back the intensity that high-proof whiskey enthusiasts seek.
Produced under the A. Smith Bowman Pioneer Spirit name, Batch 5 combines a substantial 10-year age statement with full-strength bottling. The result is a powerful expression built for experienced bourbon drinkers, collectors, and anyone searching for mature cask strength bourbon with unmistakable presence.
The decade of maturation provides a foundation of deep oak and developed sweetness, while the exceptionally high proof amplifies the whiskey's richness. Expect layers reminiscent of dark caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, toasted oak, baking spice, dark fruit and char, followed by a long, warming finish.
At 137.6 proof, this isn't a bourbon that needs to be rushed. Start with a small neat pour and allow it time in the glass. Adding water gradually can reduce the alcohol intensity while revealing additional aromatic and flavor layers.
With its combination of Batch 5 designation, 10-year age statement and 137.6-proof cask strength presentation, this release has clear appeal for enthusiasts seeking distinctive, high-proof American bourbon.
Key Features
10 Years Old: A full decade of maturation contributes mature oak character and concentrated depth.
137.6 Proof: Bottled at an extraordinary 68.8% ABV.
Cask Strength: Presented at cask strength for a powerful, concentrated whiskey experience.
Batch 5: Part of the sought-after A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength batch series.
Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey: A distinctive American bourbon expression bearing the Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey designation.
Small Batch & Copper Distilled: Both characteristics are prominently stated on the bottle.
750mL: Full-size bottle presentation.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep amber with rich copper and mahogany highlights.
Nose: Concentrated aromas of dark caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, brown sugar and baking spice, complemented by mature wood and dark-fruit nuances.
Palate: Powerful and full-bodied, delivering impressions of caramelized sugar, vanilla, seasoned oak, cinnamon, dark fruit, char and warm spice.
Finish: Long, intense and warming, with lingering oak, caramel, baking spice and barrel char.
How to Enjoy
Given its 137.6 proof, this bourbon is particularly suited to deliberate tasting. Pour it neat into a whiskey tasting glass and allow several minutes for the aromas to develop.
After tasting it at full strength, experiment with a few drops of room-temperature water. Additional water can be introduced gradually until you reach your preferred balance of intensity, aroma and flavor.
A large ice cube is another option for a slowly evolving pour, although enthusiasts looking to explore the whiskey's full cask-strength character may prefer controlled additions of water.
FAQ
What proof is A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Batch 5?
Batch 5 is 137.6 proof, equivalent to 68.8% ABV.
How old is A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength Batch 5?
The bottle carries a 10-year age statement.
What type of whiskey is it?
It is Virginia Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Is A. Smith Bowman Batch 5 cask strength?
Yes. This release is bottled at Cask Strength.
Is this a high-proof bourbon?
Yes. At 137.6 proof, it is an exceptionally high-proof bourbon and considerably stronger than standard 80–100 proof releases.
What batch is this release?
This bottle is Batch 5 of the A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength series.
How should I drink a 137.6-proof bourbon?
For tasting, start with a small neat pour and then gradually add water to explore how dilution changes the aroma, sweetness, spice and oak character.
