Benchmark Bonded Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Benchmark Bonded Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey pays homage to the adventurous spirit of the McAfee Brothers, pioneers who explored the untamed wilderness that would eventually become the grounds of Buffalo Trace Distillery. In 1773, these explorers left surveyor marks, known as benchmarks, as lasting symbols of their journey. This bourbon stands as a tribute to their bold endeavors, capturing the essence of exploration and the rugged beauty of uncharted territories.
Tasting Notes
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Manufacturing
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Why Gifted Pour recommends it
This is a bourbon with a story worth telling at the table. Made at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, it honors the McAfee Brothers, explorers who in 1773 left surveyor marks called benchmarks on the land that would become the distillery grounds. That history makes it a built-in conversation starter, a natural fit for a history buff, a new homeowner marking their own patch of ground, or a friend setting out on a fresh chapter. In the glass it is generous and easy to like: caramel, honey and a subtle hint of oak on the nose, then sweet corn, a touch of vanilla and warmth from the charred barrels on the palate. The mouthfeel is robust yet approachable, so it suits both the seasoned bourbon drinker and someone still finding their way. It sips nicely neat with a water back and makes a confident base for an Old Fashioned, Boulevardier or Whiskey Sour, so the recipient will keep reaching for it long after the bow comes off.
Pairs well with
- Housewarming gift — The story of the McAfee Brothers marking new land with benchmarks makes a fitting toast for someone settling into a new home, and the approachable caramel-and-honey profile pleases a wide range of guests.
- Smoked barbecue ribs — The warmth from the charred barrels and toasted oak notes echo the smoky char of the meat while the sweet corn character complements a caramelized glaze.
- Pecan pie after dinner — The bourbon's caramel, honey and vanilla notes mirror the dessert's buttery, sweet richness for a cozy finish to the meal.
Questions about this bottle
Who makes Benchmark Bonded Bourbon?
It is produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky. The name pays tribute to the McAfee Brothers, explorers who in 1773 left surveyor marks, known as benchmarks, on the land that would later become the distillery's grounds.
What does it taste like?
The aroma offers caramel, honey and a subtle hint of oak. On the palate you'll find sweet corn, a touch of vanilla and warmth from the charred barrels, with a robust yet approachable mouthfeel and a lingering finish.
How is it best enjoyed?
Sip it neat to let the flavors shine, adding a water back if you prefer a milder palate and want to open up the aroma. It also works well in an Old Fashioned, a Boulevardier with sweet vermouth and Campari, or a Whiskey Sour.
What is it made from, and what size is the bottle?
It is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon made from a corn-dominant mash bill and matured in new charred oak. The bottle is 750 ml, a standard full-size bottle that presents well as a gift.