Cock of the Walk 20-year Red Wax

Experience the legacy of a bygone era with Cock of the Walk Bourbon Whiskey, a magnificent 20-year-old expression. Aged in wood for perfection, this full-strength bourbon delivers unparalleled depth and complexity, adhering to the highest traditional standards. A true connoisseur's delight.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A profound and complex nose immediately reveals the immense age. Deep notes of dried dark fruits – fig, date, and stewed prunes – intermingle with rich, dark caramel, molasses, and aged leather. Hints of polished antique wood, pipe tobacco, and a delicate wisp of rancio develop, hinting at oxidative maturation. Underlying this richness are subtle baking spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, and a whisper of clove, with a faint, old-timey floral or rosehip nuance that rounds out the aroma.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and opulent, defying its proof with an immediate burst of sweet, dark brown sugar and butterscotch that seamlessly transitions into heavy cream and vanilla bean. The oak influence is substantial but incredibly well-integrated, presenting as old cedar chest, fine tannin, and a touch of roasted coffee bean. Further sips unveil layers of dark chocolate, marzipan, and even a fleeting hint of cherry cordial. Despite its richness, there's an elegant balance, a delicate interplay of sweetness, spice, and aged wood that speaks to masterful barrel management over two decades.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and warming, evolving gracefully. It begins with lingering caramel and vanilla, slowly giving way to toasted oak and a gentle, persistent spice – black pepper and a touch of allspice. A final, refined dryness accompanies notes of seasoned leather and a faint echo of cocoa powder, leaving a memory of sophisticated complexity and satisfying depth that coats the palate for minutes.

About the Distillery

Cock of the Walk Distilling Co. positions itself as a bastion of traditional bourbon production. While the specific historical details are not provided, their label explicitly states adherence to 'the oldest traditional method' and guarantees 'age, purity, full strength and measure.' This suggests a focus on time-honored distillation and aging practices, emphasizing quality over modern innovation.