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Opening in 2022 in Matthews, North Carolina\u2014a suburb just southeast of Charlotte\u2014Oaklore Distilling is rooted in a vision that began years earlier. Back in 2017, the founders took their first bold step by laying down barrels of whiskey in partnership with sister distilleries in both North Carolina and Kentucky. While the Kentucky source remains undisclosed, the North Carolina whiskey was distilled by Southern Distilling<\/a> in Statesville, just 56 miles north.<\/p>\n The result of this thoughtful planning is Oaklore Four Grain Straight Bourbon, a carefully balanced blend of straight bourbons from both states. Batch 5 features bourbon aged between 4 and 6 years, built on a distinctive mashbill of 72% corn, 11% wheat, 10% rye, and 7% malted barley. The bourbon is distilled on Vendome continuous column stills\u2014hallmarks of quality shared by both sister distilleries\u2014and entered into barrels at 100 and 110 proof for optimal flavor development. Oaklore\u2019s approach to maturation is just as deliberate, utilizing barrels from Independent Stave Company, Black Swan, and Kelvin Cooperage. These barrels feature a mix of #3 and #4 char levels, contributing rich depth and complexity to each bottle.<\/p>\n Oaklore offers something truly distinctive through its uncommon four-grain mashbill\u2014pushing beyond the traditional three to create a bourbon with added depth, complexity, and character. The team at Oaklore says that every oak stave used in their barrels holds a story, shaped by its own unique history. They see a parallel in people\u2014each with their own journey, voice, and spirit. So, what story does Oaklore Four Grain Bourbon tell? That\u2019s for the drinker to discover. It\u2019s story time!<\/p>\n The bouquet opens with aromas of smoked almonds and oxidized green apple slices, creating a savory-tart interplay that sets the stage. Soon, notes of Werther\u2019s Originals drift in, joined by a dusting of black pepper that adds depth. While sweetness is certainly present, the nose stays balanced\u2014anchored by the nutty and slightly tannic quality of the smoked almonds and the sharpness of the apple.<\/p>\n On the palate, the journey begins with the flavor of Danish butter cookies\u2014the kind found in those iconic round blue tins. Honeyed sweetness follows closely behind, quickly giving way to a burst of green apple Jolly Ranchers. A handful of dark, mildly sweet raisins provide contrast, offering structure and restraint. Despite the dominance of sweeter elements, the bourbon walks a fine line, never tipping into excess. The mouthfeel carries a medium viscosity, providing just enough weight to support the flavor without overstaying its welcome.<\/p>\n The finish takes an intriguing turn. Burnt brown sugar leads, followed by a note of worn leather and a reprise of black pepper\u2014adding a grounded conclusion to an otherwise sweet-forward profile.<\/p>\n Oaklore Distilling may still be flying under the radar for many bourbon fans, but Batch 5 of its Four Grain Bourbon deserves attention. It offers a flavor-forward pour for those who appreciate sweeter whiskeys that don\u2019t sacrifice structure or drinkability. At 92 proof, it\u2019s a compelling sipper\u2014especially for those who might typically overlook lower-proof bourbons. Oaklore has created something worth revisiting, and this batch makes a strong case for a second pour.<\/p>\n 92 proof. Reviewed: Batch #5.<\/p>\nOaklore Four Grain Bourbon Review<\/h2>\n
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