Ah yes, Kentucky bourbon. Most folks picture the polished heavy hitters along the Bourbon Trail. Meanwhile, over in Pembroke, just shy of the Tennessee line, MB Roland Distillery is out here minding its business and bottling everything north of 100 proof like, “Trail? What trail?”
Nose: Caramel, charred oak, butterscotch, vanilla, toasted marshmallow — rich and inviting like it’s trying to win an award for “Most Bourbon-Smelling Bourbon.” And honestly? It might.
You’ll sit there nosing it thinking, “Okay… okay… we’re off to a strong start.”
Palate: Creamy caramel and vanilla show up again, backed by charred oak and a little leather. Rye spice keeps things lively. There’s a slightly youthful edge — not in a “fake ID” way, more like “still figuring itself out but confident about it.”
It’s good. Solid. Dependable. Just maybe not quite living up to the superstar entrance the nose made.
Finish: Vanilla and caramel try to hold on, rye spice brings some heat, and then — boom — dry oak and mouth-enveloping warmth take over like they just realized this is a high-proof bourbon and they have a reputation to maintain.
It lingers. With authority.
Overall: Here’s the deal: the nose sets expectations sky high. The palate says, “We’re doing our best.” The finish says, “Remember, I’m 100+ proof.”
Is it perfect? No.
Is it good? Absolutely.
Pleasantly surprised for such a young Bourbon.
