First Turn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a 100-proof bourbon that captures the tactical precision and bold spirit of Kentucky's thoroughbred racing heritage, aged 24 months and bottled by RD #1 Spirits in the heart of Lexington's Bluegrass country. In the rolling hills surrounding Lexington, where morning mist clings to limestone pastures and the thunder of hoofbeats echoes through bourbon country, RD #1 Spirits crafts spirits with the same dedication to excellence that defines Kentucky's legendary racetracks. First Turn celebrates that crucial moment in thoroughbred racing where champions separate themselves from the field—where technique, timing, and unwavering commitment to craft determine victory.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fresh grain sweetness, vanilla cream, honey-drizzled biscuits, subtle oak char, racing leather
• Palate: Caramel corn, warm spice, toasted oak, brown butter, hint of Kentucky limestone minerality
• Finish: Medium length with lingering vanilla, gentle pepper heat, charred oak embers

Product Details

Spirit Type	Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV	50.0% (100 Proof)
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	Aged 24 Months
Distillery	RD #1 Spirits
Region	Lexington, Kentucky

Perfect For

• Derby Day Celebrations: Honor Kentucky's racing tradition with this thoroughbred bourbon
• Evening Porch Sipping: Neat or with a splash of limestone water as the sun sets over bluegrass
• Bourbon Enthusiast Gifts: Perfect introduction to Lexington's emerging distillery scene
• Classic Cocktails: The 100-proof strength stands up beautifully in Old Fashioneds and Manhattans

Frequently Asked Questions

What does First Turn Kentucky Straight Bourbon taste like?

First Turn offers a youthful yet well-balanced bourbon profile with prominent vanilla and caramel notes from its 24-month aging, complemented by grain sweetness and gentle oak influence. The 100-proof bottling provides warmth without overwhelming heat, delivering honey-drizzled biscuits on the nose and brown butter richness on the palate.

How should I drink First Turn bourbon?

First Turn shines when sipped neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavors, allowing you to appreciate the careful balance achieved in its 24-month maturation. The 100-proof strength also makes it excellent for classic bourbon cocktails like Old Fashioneds, where it maintains its character against other ingredients.

Is First Turn good for someone new to bourbon?

Yes, First Turn serves as an excellent introduction to Kentucky straight bourbon, offering approachable flavors without sacrificing complexity. The 24-month age provides enough oak integration to taste like proper bourbon while maintaining the grain sweetness that appeals to developing palates.

What makes First Turn different from other Kentucky bourbons?

First Turn distinguishes itself through its connection to Kentucky's thoroughbred racing heritage and its origin from Lexington's emerging craft distillery scene. Unlike longer-aged bourbons, its 24-month maturation showcases the distillery's technique in achieving balance at a younger age, much like a champion racehorse finding the perfect line through the first turn.

Is First Turn worth the investment?

First Turn offers solid value as an approachable 100-proof Kentucky straight bourbon that delivers authentic bourbon character at its price point. For those interested in supporting Kentucky's growing craft distillery movement or seeking a bourbon with unique racing heritage, it represents both quality craftsmanship and storytelling.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.