The Florida Colonel A JJ Grey Spirit is a 100-proof straight bourbon whiskey that bridges two worlds — the coastal craft distilling of St. Augustine, Florida, and the barrel-aged traditions of Kentucky. This collaborative spirit from St. Augustine Distillery Co. represents their second round of blending select Kentucky barrels with their Florida craftsmanship, creating a bourbon that captures both Southern heritage and Sunshine State innovation.
St. Augustine Distillery Co. has built its reputation on honoring traditional distilling methods while embracing the unique terroir of America's oldest city. This collaboration spirit reflects their philosophy of respecting bourbon's Kentucky roots while showcasing how Florida's climate and coastal influence can enhance the aging process. The marriage of Kentucky barrels with Florida finishing creates a distinctive profile that speaks to both regions' distilling heritage.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Warm caramel, vanilla bean, toasted oak, honeyed grain, subtle spice
- Palate: Rich bourbon sweetness, charred oak, dark fruit, peppery rye, brown sugar
- Finish: Medium to long with lingering oak tannins, sweet spice, warm vanilla
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 50.0% (100 Proof) |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Age Statement | No Age Statement |
| Distillery | St. Augustine Distillery Co. |
| Region | St. Augustine, Florida |
| Barrel Type | Traditional Oak |
Perfect For
- Neat Sipping: At 100 proof, this bourbon rewards contemplative sipping by the fire
- Southern Gatherings: A conversation starter that bridges Kentucky tradition with Florida innovation
- Coastal Evenings: Perfect for sunset porch sessions overlooking the water
- Whiskey Exploration: Ideal for those discovering how regional influences shape bourbon character
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Florida Colonel JJ Grey Spirit taste like?
This bourbon offers classic bourbon flavors of caramel and vanilla with charred oak backbone, enhanced by the marriage of Kentucky barrels with Florida finishing. The 100-proof strength delivers full-bodied richness with warm spice notes and a satisfying oak finish that showcases both regional influences.
Is The Florida Colonel good for cocktails or should I drink it neat?
While this bourbon works well in classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds, its unique dual-heritage profile and 100-proof strength make it particularly rewarding when sipped neat or with a splash of water. The collaboration's distinctive character is best appreciated when you can taste the interplay between Kentucky and Florida influences.
How does this compare to traditional Kentucky bourbon?
The Florida Colonel maintains the fundamental character of straight bourbon while adding subtle coastal influences from its Florida finishing. Unlike purely Kentucky bourbons, this spirit benefits from the humid Florida climate which can accelerate interaction between whiskey and wood, creating unique flavor development that complements the Kentucky base.
What makes this a collaboration spirit?
This represents St. Augustine Distillery's second round collaboration, where they blend carefully selected Kentucky bourbon barrels with their Florida distilling expertise. The result showcases how different regional approaches to aging and finishing can create something greater than the sum of its parts, honoring both bourbon tradition and innovation.
Is The Florida Colonel worth the investment for bourbon collectors?
As a limited collaboration between Kentucky heritage and Florida craft distilling, this bourbon offers both immediate drinking pleasure and collectible appeal. The unique dual-region approach and the distillery's growing reputation make it an interesting addition for those exploring American whiskey beyond traditional Kentucky boundaries.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.