Ranch Regulator has crafted a bourbon with an undeniable Southern charm, bringing together bold flavors and a high-proof punch. This 8-year-old straight bourbon, selected by Total Wine in Metairie, Louisiana, clocks in at a hefty 126.3 proof, making it a true heavyweight in the world of high-proof spirits. With a mash bill of 80% corn, 10% malted corn, 5% rye, and 5% barley, this bourbon promises a dynamic blend of sweet, spicy, and earthy notes. But does it deliver, or does the heat overshadow the flavor? Let’s dive in.

“RANCH REGULATOR STRAIGHT GEORGIA BOURBON” NOTES

Nose

Right off the bat, the nose of Ranch Regulator pulls no punches. Rye spice immediately jumps to the forefront, followed by a wave of cinnamon and brown sugar syrup, like a decadent dessert just out of the oven. Ethanol is noticeable, but it doesn’t come across as harsh—it’s almost like a reminder of the high-proof nature of the spirit, setting the stage for something serious. As it settles, deeper notes of rich chocolate, dark cherry, and baking spice emerge, adding a layer of complexity to the nose. There’s a slight peppery edge, and a dusty quality lingers in the background, hinting at a well-aged bourbon. It’s a captivating and multi-dimensional nose that has a lot to offer the patient drinker.

Palate

On the palate it continues to deliver. The sweetness of toffee hits first, accompanied by a pronounced rye spice that gives this bourbon its backbone. There’s an immediate sense of richness—brown sugar and baking spices swirl together, creating a warm, comforting mouthfeel. As the sip develops, the dark chocolate notes become more prominent, leaning towards the very dark side, almost bittersweet. The rye spice is ever-present, but it’s balanced nicely by the richness of the chocolate and the depth of the brown sugar. There’s a nice complexity here, and despite the high proof, the palate remains accessible and well-rounded.

Finish

The finish is long and rich, with a slight perfumey quality that sticks around, almost floral in its intensity. As the finish evolves, it takes on a very dark and deep character, with a bitterness creeping in towards the very end. While the bitterness might not be for everyone, it’s well integrated and doesn’t overpower the rest of the experience. The balance is key here—while it’s certainly bold, the finish stays in harmony with the nose and palate, leaving you with a lingering warmth that’s both satisfying and contemplative.

Ratings

Dylan: 7.9
Scott: 8.4