Ironroot Republic Bourbon - A Sleight of Hand - Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskey (2025) AO & Hybrid Cask 46.0 "OB"

Ironroot Republic Bourbon - A Sleight of Hand - Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskey [Official Bottling] Bottled 2025 - Double Barreled in American & Hybrid Oak Casks - 46.0% abv.

Ironroot Republic is one of the Lone Star State’s leading distilleries. Founded by brothers Jonathan and Robert Likarish just over a decade ago, the family-owned company produces mainly whisky and brandy. It takes its name from the ‘iron roots of Texas’, a reference to the Texas vine roots grafted to French vines in the late 1800s to combat the phylloxera plague.

The technique was developed by horticulturalist T.V. Munson in Denison, Texas – Ironroot’s hometown. The Likarish brothers embraced the history of the area and developed their philosophy of Texas terroir under the guidance of legendary brandy distiller Hubert Germain-Robin, a native of the French Cognac region.

Ironroot Republic has adopted French brandy techniques, such as a pot-still distillation, but also the use of élevage. It is a cask management approach where the spirit’s development is actively guided to build complex flavors, aromas and texture. This process is also well-suited for the high Texas heat and low humidity.

Finally, maybe the most notable element of Ironroot Republic’s production is the use of different varieties of (heirloom) corn, also known as flavouring grains, in its mash bills.

Ironroot Sleight of Hand combines the distillery’s own bourbon (10% Butcher Corn and 90% Yellow Corn) with bourbon from MGP (Indiana), Green River (Kentucky) and Kentucky Artisan Distillery. The product is 7 to 9 years old.

Nose: Opening up on sweet floral notes alongside hints of pollen and a delicate grassiness, followed by stewed apples, fudge and just a sliver of fennel seeds. Then a slight sprinkle of orange pith to top things off, although the oak and vanilla-forward aromas continue to grow.

Taste: Silky mouthfeel and even silkier arrival. Hints of honey, melted butter and cinnamon alongside light oak and some toasted, yet creamy pecans. Also slivers of Triple Sec, a hint of pine and a pinch of pepper.

Finish: Medium length. Warming spices and toasted oak with a slight herbal note.

Credits: Wordsofwhisky