Rough Rider Happy Warrior Cask Strength Bourbon

A bold, high-rye masterpiece that pays homage to Teddy Roosevelt and his legendary Rough Riders! Crafted by Long Island Spirits, "The Happy Warrior" is a limited-edition cask strength bourbon aged for a minimum of four years (and up to seven) in new American oak. The real magic happens during a unique secondary maturation: the whiskey is finished for several months in French oak casks sourced from local Long Island wineries that previously held Merlot and Chardonnay. Before finishing, these barrels are "washed" with high-proof brandy distilled in-house from local grapes. Bottled straight from the cask at a formidable 114 proof (57% ABV), it is a complex, non-chill filtered spirit that beautifully balances intense barrel heat with sophisticated fruit and floral notes.

NOSE

Rich and surprisingly floral. Bold aromas of sweet charred oak, marshmallow crème, and vanilla bean are layered with hints of fresh green apple, honeysuckle, and warm baking spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.

PALATE

Big, viscous, and "bruising" in the best way. Intense flavors of toasted rye bread and caramel hit first, followed by a wave of blackberry jam, dulce de leche, and dark chocolate. The high rye content (35%) provides a sharp, piquant spice of clove and peppercorn that cuts through the brandy-sweetness.

FINISH

Long, warming, and elegant. It leaves a lingering trail of salted caramel, seasoned oak, and a unique, tart acidity from the wine-cask influence.