**Review of Detroit City Distillery’s Toasted Barrel Bourbon (Store Pick - Harper Liquorland)**
Detroit City Distillery (DCD) has earned a loyal following, and it's no surprise why. Known for producing exceptional spirits with a true sense of place, DCD has made a name for itself not just in Michigan, but in the hearts of bourbon lovers everywhere. Whether it’s the classic offerings or their more experimental releases, the distillery consistently hits the mark. In fact, the hosts of a popular whiskey podcast have made no secret of their admiration for the brand, describing it as a favorite, with praise for every bottle they’ve tasted so far.
*“Detroit City Distillery is actually a fave.”*
It’s no exaggeration when they say that DCD has never missed the mark, with one of the hosts commenting, *“They do a good job of everything they put out. I don’t think we’ve had a bad taste of anything.”* That endorsement alone tells you just how much they stand behind these products. DCD’s commitment to quality shines through with every sip, and it’s clear they’re doing something special.
Now, let’s dive into one of their standout releases: the *Toasted Barrel Bourbon* (Store Pick - Harper Liquorland).
Tasting Notes: A Cherry-Infused Journey
The Toasted Barrel Bourbon is not your average whiskey, and it shows from the very first pour. The hosts spent a generous portion of their podcast unpacking the complexity of this particular expression. One thing that stands out immediately is its higher proof — coming in at a robust 116 proof. Despite this, it’s not harsh, and there’s an unmistakable smoothness that allows its nuanced flavors to shine through.
As they describe it, the key feature of the Toasted Barrel is the influence of cherry from the toasted barrels used in its aging process. However, it's not the in-your-face, overly sweet cherry you might expect from other cherry-flavored whiskeys. The cherry here is subtle, just a *“little bit of cherry”*, creating a soft and pleasant note that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the palate.
*“These are cherry toasted barrels… it’s a small twinge of cherry in the little cherry.”*
What truly distinguishes this bourbon is its balance. The cherry is present, but it doesn’t dominate the flavor profile, which is a huge plus for those who are tired of the over-the-top artificial cherry flavors that sometimes plague the whiskey world. The hosts also noted hints of vanilla, caramel, and a touch of cinnamon, making for a rounded and harmonious experience.
The finish, while smooth, has a slight *“char”* to it—just enough to add a layer of complexity without being overpowering. As one of the hosts mentioned, it’s not a *“gangster ass amount of char”*, but just the right touch that elevates the overall profile. And despite the higher proof, there’s *“no hug on this”*—meaning that the finish doesn’t leave an intense warmth or lingering burn. It’s a clean, balanced conclusion to an otherwise rich experience.
The Cherry Factor: A Subtle Touch, Not Overpowering
If you’re a fan of cherry flavors in your whiskey, the Toasted Barrel Bourbon is a fantastic choice. The cherry notes here are delicate and well-integrated, offering a taste of fruitiness without the overwhelming sweetness often found in cherry-flavored whiskeys. The hosts emphasize how much they prefer this style of cherry influence over others, particularly when comparing it to something like *Travis City Cherry*, which they describe as *“way too much”* and “like cavity drinking.”
*“If you like cherry, this is the way to go. It’s not overpowering.”*
It’s clear that DCD has struck the perfect balance here, and for those who’ve been disappointed by overly sweet, artificial cherry notes in other whiskeys, this Toasted Barrel Bourbon offers a more sophisticated, controlled version of the flavor.
A Standout in DCD’s Lineup, But Butcher’s Cut Still Reigns Supreme
For those familiar with Detroit City Distillery’s lineup, the Toasted Barrel Bourbon is often compared to DCD’s *Butcher’s Cut* bourbon, which remains a top favorite among enthusiasts. The Toasted Barrel, while impressive, doesn’t quite dethrone Butcher’s Cut as the preferred choice for many. However, that doesn’t mean the Toasted Barrel is any less noteworthy.
While the Butcher’s Cut is beloved for its rich, full-bodied flavor profile, the Toasted Barrel brings something unique to the table. It’s a bourbon that offers complexity without being overpowering, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-proof bourbon with a smoother finish and subtle fruit-forward notes. The hosts describe it as *“a good product”*, and while it doesn’t surpass Butcher’s Cut in their hearts, it’s still a worthy contender and a bottle that’s sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
Detroit City Distillery’s Toasted Barrel Bourbon (Store Pick - Harper Liquorland) is a fine example of the distillery’s craftsmanship. With its balanced cherry notes, smooth finish, and nuanced flavors, it’s a bourbon that appeals to both seasoned whiskey drinkers and those new to the spirit. Whether you’re enjoying it neat or in a cocktail, the Toasted Barrel Bourbon offers a memorable drinking experience that reflects DCD’s commitment to quality and innovation. And while Butcher’s Cut remains the distillery’s flagship for many, the Toasted Barrel shows that there’s plenty more to explore from this hometown favorite.
So, if you’re looking to add something unique to your collection, give the Toasted Barrel Bourbon a try—you won’t regret it. Cheers!