Today we’re cracking into Kentucky Nectar, a limited release from the revived Old Commonwealth brand—now with a familiar name behind it: Julian Van Winkle. Yeah, that Van Winkle. You’ll notice the bottle design nods to the Pappy lineup too. But let’s not get caught up in the lore. Let’s talk whiskey.
This one’s finished in honey casks, bottled at 104 proof, and cost me $100 direct from the source. No age statement, no disclosure on the mashbill or source, but with the names involved, you figure it’s not bottom shelf stock.
The Brand & The Bottle
Old Commonwealth has been around for decades, but this is part of a modern revival. If you’re looking to get your hands on these, do yourself a favor: sign up on their site and join the VIP list. That’s how I found out about this drop. Every release is limited, and they don’t last long.
First Look
Color’s on the deeper amber side—golden and rich. It looks great in the glass. Viscous legs right off the pour. It clings, and that’s usually a good sign.
The Nose
Honey. And not in a subtle way—this is unmistakably finished in honey casks.
There’s also caramel, vanilla, a little toasted oak, and that soft floral sweetness that you only get from actual honey influence. It leans sweet without being artificial. Honestly, it smells like a honey bun just came out of the oven.
The Taste
Alright—this one surprised me.
I’ve had it before at the end of a few tastings, but this is my first time sitting down with it fresh, clean, and focused. And man, it delivers.
Mouthfeel is medium to bold, a nice silky texture.
Up front, it’s sweet: that warm honey bun vibe keeps rolling. Then comes some chocolate, a bit of maple, and bready notes underneath it all. There’s a pastry quality to it. Not dessert bourbon sweet, just rich, layered, and well-blended.
The Finish
Long.
It stays sweet for a while, and just when you think it’s done, a soft oak note creeps in—no harsh tannins, no heavy tobacco or leather bitterness. It’s rounded, easy-drinking, and coats the palate without overstaying its welcome.
The Verdict
This one’s a sleeper. I wasn’t expecting much when I tried it during a tasting lineup, but on its own, it holds up and then some. There’s balance, there’s texture, and that honey barrel finish gives it something different without turning it into a novelty.
Score: 86/100.
Not quite a unicorn, but definitely a standout. For $100 and the pedigree behind it, this one’s worth chasing—especially if you’re into finished bourbons that lean sweet without going over the top.
Summary
- Proof: 104
- Finish: Honey casks
- Price: $100
- Nose: Honey, caramel, vanilla, toasted oak
- Palate: Honey bun, maple, chocolate, soft bread notes
- Finish: Sweet, long, soft oak on the back end
- Score: 86/100
If you get the chance to grab one, do it. Sign up with Old Commonwealth, keep an eye out, and join the queue like the rest of us. You’ll be glad you did.
