Calumet 16 Year Bourbon (750Ml)

Taste and Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Calumet 16 Year Bourbon is a masterclass in balance and depth. From the first sip, you are greeted with a rich, velvety texture that envelops the palate. The initial flavors are bold, with pronounced notes of dark caramel, rich toffee, and toasted oak. As the bourbon opens up, subtler hints of dried fruit—particularly fig and raisin—emerge, adding layers of sweetness and complexity. There’s also a delicate spice, featuring cinnamon and black pepper, which provides a perfect counterpoint to the bourbon’s inherent sweetness. The interplay of these flavors makes each sip a journey of discovery, with new nuances revealing themselves as the bourbon breathes.

Aroma & Bouquet

The nose of Calumet 16 Year Bourbon is nothing short of intoxicating. It offers a robust bouquet that is rich in classic bourbon aromas, starting with deep vanilla and caramel, which are the hallmark scents of long-aged bourbon. These are followed by layers of oak, a testament to the extensive aging process, and a touch of dark chocolate that adds a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness. As you explore further, you’ll detect a whisper of tobacco and leather, reminiscent of a well-aged cigar, adding a layer of sophistication and depth to the aromatic experience.

Smooth & Finish

Calumet 16 Year Bourbon is renowned for its exceptionally smooth finish, a true mark of its age and quality. The finish is long and lingering, allowing the complex flavors to gradually fade, leaving behind a warm, satisfying glow. The smoothness is a result of the 16-year aging process, during which the bourbon has had time to mellow and develop its rich, layered profile. The finish is where the bourbon’s spice and sweetness come together harmoniously, making for a deeply satisfying conclusion to each sip.

Craftsmanship and Distillation

The craftsmanship behind Calumet 16 Year Bourbon is a blend of tradition and innovation. The distillation process is carried out with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest grains and pure limestone-filtered water from Kentucky. The bourbon is then aged in new, charred American oak barrels, where it spends 16 years developing its unique character. This long aging period allows the bourbon to absorb the complex flavors of the wood, resulting in a spirit that is rich, smooth, and full-bodied. The barrels are carefully selected, ensuring that only the best expressions are bottled under the Calumet name.

Food Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Calumet 16 Year Bourbon pairs beautifully with a range of foods, elevating both the bourbon and the dish. For a savory pairing, consider grilled or roasted meats, such as a prime rib or a rack of lamb. The bourbon’s rich, oaky flavors complement the smoky, savory notes of the meat, creating a harmonious pairing. For a sweet pairing, dark chocolate truffles or a caramel dessert will highlight the bourbon’s sweeter notes, while the slight bitterness of the chocolate provides a pleasing contrast. Serve Calumet 16 Year neat or with a single large ice cube to enjoy the full spectrum of its flavors.

Who Is It For?

Calumet 16 Year Bourbon is crafted for the discerning bourbon enthusiast who appreciates the nuances of a well-aged spirit. It’s for those who seek complexity, depth, and a smooth, luxurious experience in their bourbon. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone looking to celebrate a special occasion with a premium spirit, this bourbon is an excellent choice.

How To Enjoy

To fully appreciate Calumet 16 Year Bourbon, it’s best enjoyed slowly, allowing the bourbon to open up and reveal its full complexity. Pour it neat in a tulip-shaped glass, which helps concentrate the aromas, or over a single large ice cube to slightly mellow the spirit without diluting its rich flavors. Take your time to savor each sip, noting how the flavors evolve on the palate and the long, smooth finish that follows.

Awards and Recognition

Calumet 16 Year Bourbon has received numerous accolades from the spirits community, including high ratings from prestigious competitions such as the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the International Wine & Spirit Competition. These awards are a testament to the bourbon’s exceptional quality and the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.