UNLOCKED 7 Year Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a small batch Kentucky-distilled bourbon bottled at 88 proof by Virginia's Middleburg Barrel Company. This seven-year-aged straight bourbon embodies the philosophy that time and trials create strength, delivering a balanced expression of traditional American whiskey craftsmanship with notes of caramel, vanilla, and seasoned oak.
From the rolling hills of Virginia, Middleburg Barrel Company brings a thoughtful approach to bourbon curation under the guidance of Richard Blackman. Their UNLOCKED series celebrates the journey of aging, where Kentucky's finest distillate spends seven years in charred oak barrels, developing the complex character that only time can provide. Each small batch reflects the belief that like ancient oak trees, great bourbon grows stronger through seasons of patience and perseverance.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Warm vanilla, toasted oak, honey drizzle, baking spices, dried orange peel
- Palate: Rich caramel, charred oak, cinnamon warmth, brown butter, subtle tobacco leaf
- Finish: Medium length with lingering oak tannins, sweet spice, and gentle warmth
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 44.0% (88 Proof) |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Age Statement | 7 Years |
| Distillery | Middleburg Barrel Company |
| Origin | Distilled in Kentucky, Bottled in Virginia |
| Production | Small Batch |
Perfect For
- Fireside Contemplation: Neat sipping while reflecting on life's journey
- Intimate Gatherings: Sharing stories with close friends over bourbon and cigars
- Classic Cocktails: Old Fashioneds and Manhattans that showcase the whiskey's character
- Milestone Celebrations: Toasting achievements that come with time and perseverance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does UNLOCKED 7 Year Bourbon taste like?
UNLOCKED 7 Year Bourbon offers a classic Kentucky bourbon profile with rich caramel and vanilla sweetness balanced by charred oak and warming spices. The seven-year aging develops complex layers of honey, brown butter, and subtle tobacco notes, creating a well-rounded whiskey that drinks smoothly at 88 proof while maintaining enough character for cocktails.
Is UNLOCKED Bourbon good for cocktails or better neat?
UNLOCKED works beautifully both ways. At 88 proof, it has enough backbone to shine in classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Whiskey Sours, while the seven-year aging provides sufficient complexity for neat sipping. The balanced oak and spice profile makes it particularly excellent in stirred cocktails where you want the bourbon character to come through.
How does UNLOCKED compare to other 7-year bourbons?
UNLOCKED sits comfortably alongside other premium 7-year expressions but brings a unique Virginia perspective to Kentucky-distilled bourbon. Unlike higher-proof releases, its 88-proof bottling emphasizes approachability while maintaining the rich oak and caramel notes you'd expect from seven years in charred barrels. It's comparable to brands like Evan Williams Single Barrel or Knob Creek in terms of age and character development.
What makes Middleburg Barrel Company special?
Middleburg Barrel Company brings a curation-focused approach to bourbon, selecting and bottling Kentucky-distilled whiskey in Virginia's horse country. Their UNLOCKED series emphasizes the philosophy that great bourbon, like wisdom, develops through time and trials. Richard Blackman's signature on each bottle represents their commitment to small-batch quality and thoughtful selection.
Is UNLOCKED 7 Year worth the investment?
For bourbon enthusiasts seeking a well-aged, thoughtfully curated whiskey, UNLOCKED 7 Year offers excellent value. The seven-year age statement, small-batch production, and 88-proof bottling deliver complexity and character typically found in more expensive releases. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate both the craftsmanship of aging and the story behind the bottle.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.