The morning mist rises from the Greenbrier River as dawn breaks over the Smooth Ambler rickhouse, where charred oak barrels breathe with the mountain air. Inside these walls, patience transforms grain into liquid gold, and today that patience reveals itself in the Smooth Ambler Founders' Cask Strength 2022 Series Batch 1 — a straight bourbon whiskey bottled at an uncompromising 117.4 proof, capturing five years of West Virginia terroir in its purest form. From the rolling foothills of Maxwelton, West Virginia, Smooth Ambler Spirits Co. has carved out a reputation for honest whiskey-making rooted in Appalachian tradition. The Founders' Cask Strength series represents their commitment to letting the barrels speak for themselves, bottling small batches without dilution to preserve every nuance the wood has imparted. This 2022 Batch 1 release showcases the distillery's dedication to craft distillation in the Mountain State.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Charred oak, dark caramel, honeyed corn, mountain wildflowers, vanilla bean
• Palate: Full-bodied with waves of burnt sugar, toasted grain, black pepper, leather, dried fruit
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering spice, oak tannins, and sweet tobacco

Product Details

Spirit Type	Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV	58.7% (117.4 Proof)
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	5 Years
Release Year	2022
Distillery	Smooth Ambler Spirits Co.
Region	Maxwelton, West Virginia
Batch	2022-1

Perfect For

• Fireside contemplation: Sip neat while watching flames dance in the hearth
• Bourbon enthusiasts: Those seeking uncompromising cask-strength character
• Appalachian evenings: Porch sitting with mountain views and good conversation
• Collectors: Limited batch release showcasing West Virginia distilling heritage

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Smooth Ambler Founders' Cask Strength taste like?

This bourbon delivers bold, unfiltered flavors at 117.4 proof with rich notes of charred oak, burnt sugar, and black pepper. The high proof amplifies the sweet corn and vanilla characteristics while adding layers of leather and dried fruit complexity. The West Virginia terroir shines through with earthy undertones and a warming, spice-driven finish.

Should I drink this bourbon neat or with water?

At cask strength, this bourbon is designed to be explored both ways. Neat showcases its full intensity and complexity, while a few drops of water can open up hidden floral and fruit notes. Start with small sips neat to appreciate the full experience, then experiment with dilution to find your preferred drinking strength.

How does this compare to other cask strength bourbons?

Smooth Ambler's Founders' Cask Strength offers a distinctly Appalachian character compared to Kentucky cask strength releases. The West Virginia climate and mountain water contribute to a slightly earthier, more mineral-driven profile. At 5 years and 117.4 proof, it provides excellent value for craft cask strength bourbon with regional character.

Is this bourbon worth collecting?

As a small-batch, limited release from West Virginia's premier craft distillery, this 2022 Batch 1 represents both collectible appeal and drinking quality. Smooth Ambler's growing reputation and the limited nature of their Founders' Cask Strength series make each batch noteworthy for bourbon collectors seeking regional American whiskey.

What makes West Virginia bourbon different?

West Virginia's mountain climate creates unique aging conditions with greater temperature swings than traditional bourbon regions. The mineral-rich water from Appalachian springs and the distinct seasonal patterns contribute to bourbon with more pronounced wood interaction and earthy complexity, setting it apart from Kentucky and Tennessee expressions.

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