Heaven Hill recently announced the 2018 limited-edition release of Parker’s Heritage Collection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Finished in orange curaçao barrels, the 12th edition, like some of its predecessors, will benefit ALS research.
After aging for seven-to-eight years in the upper floors of Rickhouse Q, the bourbon is then finished for four months in barrels that previously held French orange curaçao liqueur. “The orange curaçao finish lends a unique flavor that complements the Bourbon without overpowering it, creating an entirely new and elegant tasting experience,” the company says.
The late Heaven Hill Master Distiller Parker Beam, for whom the series is named, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2010. The past five editions from 2013-2017 — the “Promise of Hope” Bourbon, the “Original Batch” Straight Wheat Whiskey, the Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey, the 24-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, and the 11-Year-Old Single Barrel — have raised over $1 million toward ALS research and patient care through contributions made by Heaven Hill for each bottle purchased. Heaven Hill will continue with this cause-related campaign with the 2018 bottle.
Parker’s Heritage Collection was originally conceived to showcase the range of Heaven Hill’s American Whiskey holdings, as Heaven Hill boasts the world’s second largest inventory of aging American Whiskey. This is the second finished offering in 12 years of the annual series — the seventh iteration was a Cognac-finished Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Parker’s Heritage Collection 12th Edition Whiskey (110 proof)
Visual: Dark orange.
Nose: There’s no hiding the curaçao on the initial whiff. What’s remarkable is how well it blends with the bourbon. It has a cocktail-like sensibility that embraces the woodiness and the citrus tones. This is elegant, full-bodied and enticing.
Taste: Here, the bourbon itself is clearly the winner with a richly aged forward push that takes command. It’s only after several seconds that the curaçao makes its presence known. Like a final touch of maturity and sunshine.
Finish: Medium long and begging for several sips.
Overall: A knockout winner of a uniquely finished bourbon. All of the Parker’s Heritage bourbons have been impressive. Personally, I think this is one of the best so far.
GSN Rating: A++
For more information go to: Heaven Hill Distillery
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