Tasting Notes
- Nose: Charred oak, cinnamon bark, vanilla bean, dried orange peel, black pepper
- Palate: Caramel corn, rye spice, toasted almonds, dark chocolate, leather
- Finish: Long with warming spice, oak tannins, honey sweetness, lingering pepper heat
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 57.7% (115.4 Proof) |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Age Statement | 10 Years |
| Release Year | 2016 |
| Distillery | Cardinal Spirits |
| Region | Indiana |
| Mash Bill | 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley |
| Cask Number | 09 |
| Bottle Number | 33 |
Perfect For
- Neat Sipping: Experience the full complexity of this high-proof single barrel
- Whiskey Enthusiasts: Collectors seeking unique Indiana craft expressions
- Special Occasions: A conversation starter with its distinctive backstory
- Cold Weather Evenings: The high proof provides warming comfort by the fire
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Beautiful and the Damned Electric Delta taste like?
This single cask bourbon delivers bold rye spice upfront from its 36% rye mash bill, followed by rich caramel and vanilla from 10 years in oak. The high 115.4 proof amplifies every flavor, creating an intense but balanced drinking experience with layers of baking spices, dark chocolate, and warming oak tannins.
Should I add water to this bourbon?
At 115.4 proof, this bourbon benefits from a few drops of water to open up its complexity. Start neat to appreciate the full intensity, then add small amounts of water to unlock hidden floral and fruit notes. The high proof means you can dilute significantly while maintaining robust flavor.
How does this compare to other Indiana bourbons?
Unlike many Indiana bourbons that use MGP distillate, this is distilled by Cardinal Spirits with their own high-rye mash bill. The 36% rye content places it firmly in the spicy bourbon category, similar to Old Forester 1897 or Russell's Reserve 10 Year, but with the unique terroir of Indiana's climate and Cardinal's distilling philosophy.
Is this bourbon worth the investment?
Single cask bourbons at 10 years and cask strength represent excellent value for serious whiskey drinkers. The combination of age, proof, unique mash bill, and single barrel selection creates a distinctive drinking experience you won't find in standard releases. Each bottle from this cask is unrepeatable.
What makes Cardinal Spirits distinctive?
Cardinal Spirits represents Indiana's craft distilling renaissance, focusing on grain-to-glass production with locally sourced ingredients. Their location in Bloomington puts them at the heart of Indiana's agricultural region, allowing direct relationships with corn and grain farmers. This bourbon showcases their commitment to high-rye mash bills that emphasize spice and complexity.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.