Holland’s Ghost

I have the best girlfriends. My brown girl tribe is fierce in so many ways. Bonus, the men they have married wonderful too.

I was recently visiting one of my tribe and her husband was as excited to see me as my girlfriend was. He told me he had something for me to taste. Full disclosure his bar is amazing. I have free reign over it all. His only caveat ~ if I start making drinks, I have to make enough for him to enjoy too. That I can do!

Anyhoots, there was a Glen Cairn glass near my seat. He nodded his head to indicate it was mine. He is easy with a smile and a laugh; but rarely do I see the twinkle in his eye like I did. I was intrigued by that alone. I knew this was going to something. I took my time getting settled, much to his impatience. Sometimes I can behave like a bratty little sister.

The nose was spicy with toasted nuts and maybe orange. Hmmm, I’m thinking Rye with the spice. I immediately start thinking about the cocktails I can make with this. It had great legs in the glass and a warm, deep amber color. My friends were ready for me to hurry up and taste it. And then I took my first sip. Whoa, this is BIG. At 107 proof, it is, but I don’t think this is Rye, it’s not spice forward.

My second sip I was ready for. It was delicious. It has a wonderful mouth feel with a long finish. I picked up subtle hints of chocolate and some baking spices. It’s delicious.

When I finally turned to my friends they were smiling and showed me the bottle – Holland’s Ghost.

Ever heard of it? Me either. It’s a limited release by Resevoir Distillery. The mash bill is 70% corn, 15% wheat and 15% rye; but get this, the fully aged bourbon is then finished in a stout barrel for another 8 months. I’m not a fan of stout beer; but I’d gladly take this iteration.

At about $125 a bottle, this is truly a sipping bourbon; no cocktail need because it tastes yummy. I’m glad I tasted it but I can’t find it anywhere and I really want a bottle. ☹

Cheers,

~Kimberly Elise
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