Seelbach’s 15 Year…this isn’t just another release; it’s a rare gem in the world of bourbon. Released in 2023 with an incredibly limited run of just 214 bottles, this bourbon offers a unique taste of Kentucky’s rich heritage. Unlike the newer 15 Year Batch 002, this release comes in a compact 375ml bottle, making it both a collector’s item and an unforgettable sipping experience. With every pour, you’re transported to a Kentucky rickhouse—where the air is thick with the scent of charred oak, dried cherries, and sweet brown sugar. It’s quintessential Kentucky bourbon goodness, rich in tradition and complexity, delivering a smooth, robust profile that’s as timeless as the land it’s distilled from. Let’s take a closer look at why this limited-edition bottle deserves a spot in your bourbon collection.

A Walk Through a Kentucky Rickhouse

Nose

The first time you crack open this beauty, you’re immediately greeted by the warmth of dark chocolate—rich, indulgent, and inviting. Behind that initial hit, you get a deep, warm layer of Bananas Foster, as if you’re standing in a kitchen where dessert is being flambéed just for you. There’s also an intriguing presence of cloves, the kind you’d find in a spiced winter tea, mixed with a decadent whiff of vanilla and crème brûlée. Cherry and charred oak play peekaboo, adding a sweet and smoky edge that balances the sweeter notes. It’s a nose that wraps you up in nostalgia, offering up a cozy feeling of something warm and indulgent. If we had to grade this one just on the nose, it’d be a near-perfect 10/10.

Palate

You think the nose is great? This doesn’t hold back on the palate either. Velvet smooth, it glides effortlessly over your tongue. That rich cherry from the nose really pops here, but it’s never overwhelming. The bourbon is remarkably easy to sip, despite its proof, with maple spice pepper adding an intriguing little bite. Brown sugar and sweet oak balance out the more robust notes, giving it a full-bodied yet smooth mouthfeel. As it unfolds, you get hints of vanilla and a slight char, but thankfully, it’s not bitter; just enough to add depth. Two drops of water unlock a new layer of chocolate that adds even more complexity to the already delicious profile. If you’re into bourbon that’s rich but approachable, this one nails it—I’d give it an 8.6/10.

Finish

This bourbon doesn’t let go easily. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind that creamy, syrupy sweetness. I’d even call it cola-like—rich, slightly effervescent, and undeniably indulgent. But it’s the sweet crème brûlée that really lingers, coating your palate with a satisfying, custardy sweetness. The sweet oak follows, lingering just long enough to keep you coming back for another sip. The chocolate malt note from earlier sticks around, creating a well-rounded finish that sticks with you like a pleasant memory. It’s the kind of finish that makes you want to slowly savor each drop. A solid 8.7/10 here—long, layered, and incredibly satisfying.

Ratings

  • Dylan: 8.6
  • Scott: 8.7