Larceny Bourbon stands out for its balanced and sweet profile, aimed at a wide audience. It’s a wheated bourbon, which means it’s smoother than those made with rye. It competes well in its price range, offering a good mix of quality and likability for around $25.
People flock to this bourbon for its easy-to-enjoy character. If you don’t have a lot of money to play with, this might be a good pick for you, especially if you’re into bourbons that lean on the sweeter side. It’s a solid choice if you’re new to bourbon or looking for an everyday sipper that won’t disappoint.
In-Depth Review On Larceny Bourbon
Larceny Bourbon brings a unique story and flavor to the table. This bourbon is known for its smooth, wheated profile, making it a direct competitor to other cheap bourbons like Maker’s Mark. What sets it apart is its balanced approach, offering a taste that’s both sweet and complex without being overwhelming.
It’s available at a reasonable price, making it a great option for those who want quality without breaking the bank. The bourbon’s appeal lies in its versatility, whether you’re enjoying it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. It’s a crowd-pleaser, known for its party appeal.
In this review, we’re going to be breaking down everything from how it’s made to its taste and finish. I’ll share my own take, who might like it, its awards, and how it stacks up in terms of price and ABV. Plus, we’ll look at the best ways to enjoy it, with food or in a cocktail, and see how it compares to Bulleit Bourbon.
Distillery: Where Is It Made?
Larceny Bourbon is meticulously crafted at the Heaven Hill Distillery, a cornerstone of Kentucky’s storied bourbon country. This distillery is celebrated for its unwavering commitment to tradition and quality, providing the perfect setting for the creation of Larceny Bourbon. Here, generations of distilling expertise converge, producing a spirit that is both a tribute to and a continuation of Kentucky’s rich whiskey heritage.
The significance of the distillery’s location cannot be overstated, as it supplies the unique water and climate conditions crucial to Larceny’s distinctive character. It is this combination of natural resources and artisanal skill that ensures each bottle of Larceny Bourbon is a testament to the art of bourbon-making. The Heaven Hill Distillery’s dedication is evident in every sip, encapsulating the essence of what makes Kentucky bourbon world-renowned.
Distillation & Aging: How Is It Made?
Larceny Bourbon’s creation involves an intricate whiskey distillation process that starts with the careful selection of barrels, specifically chosen from Heaven Hill’s vast warehouses. These barrels, aged between 6 to 12 years, are selected from the middle floors, where temperature and humidity strike the perfect balance for aging, ensuring the bourbon develops its signature smoothness and depth of flavor.
The choice of wheated mash bill over the more traditional rye or corn contributes to its softer, more mellow profile. Bottling the bourbon at 92 proof is a deliberate decision to maintain the integrity of its flavors, offering a robust yet smooth drinking experience.
This careful approach to distillation and aging not only distinguishes Larceny in the crowded market of wheated bourbons but also showcases Heaven Hill’s commitment to tradition and quality. The result is a bourbon that encapsulates the essence of Kentucky’s rich distilling heritage, with a modern twist.
Nose: What Does It Smell Like?
When you first smell Larceny Bourbon, you’ll notice a strong sweet scent that reminds you of caramel, alongside a bit of a rich, sugary smell similar to nougat. Along with these, there are lighter, fresh scents that might remind you of being outdoors, like the smell of flowers or grass.
Under all this, there’s a deeper sweetness, something that you might find in high-quality bourbons, giving Larceny its unique character. This combination of scents is inviting and creates a complex aroma. It’s a bourbon that offers a mix of familiar sweet notes with a hint of something new and different.
Palate: What Does It Taste Like?
Tasting Larceny Bourbon, you’ll find that sweet caramel and nuttiness first noticed on the nose carry straight through to the palate. There’s a bit of wood influence and a dash of spice, adding a nice kick.
As you let it sit in your mouth, flavors of peach and citrus start to emerge, mingling with cinnamon and pepper. This combination makes for a rich and layered tasting experience, showcasing the bourbon’s complexity.
Finish: What Is The Aftertaste Like?
Don’t know how to properly analyze a finish? Might be time to check out our article on the whiskey tasting process.
The finish of Larceny Bourbon is all about the balance between sweetness and spice. You’re left with a lingering warmth that’s both pleasant and inviting, with a touch of nutmeg spice that keeps things interesting.
This bourbon doesn’t overstay its welcome but leaves you with just enough flavor to have you reaching for another sip. It’s a testament to Larceny’s well-rounded and approachable profile.
My Personal Thoughts
Larceny Bourbon is a solid pick. It’s smooth, has a great taste, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s the kind of bourbon that’s easy to recommend, especially if you like your drinks on the sweeter side. For me, it can be a quick go-to for both sipping and cocktails, but don’t expect it to blow you away.
Flavor Profile
Larceny Bourbon unfolds a flavor profile that is a harmonious blend of sweetness, warmth, and complexity. At the forefront, the palate is greeted with the luscious sweetness of caramel and vanilla, creating an inviting entry point. This sweetness is skillfully balanced with the rich depth of toasted oak, introducing a comforting warmth and adding a layer of complexity.
As the tasting journey progresses, subtle undertones of dark fruit and a hint of spice weave through, enriching the bourbon’s profile with nuanced flavors. Characterized by its approachability and unparalleled smoothness, Larceny Bourbon presents a versatile and richly layered palate that appeals to a wide spectrum of whiskey enthusiasts.
Who Would I Recommend It To?
I’d recommend Larceny to anyone new to bourbon or looking for a dependable staple. It’s perfect for those who prefer their bourbon on the sweeter, smoother side. Also, if you’re into cocktails, Larceny’s versatility makes it a great base for classics like the Old Fashioned. Basically, it’s for you if you want quality without complication.
Awards: What Is It Famous For?
Larceny Bourbon, particularly its Barrel Proof variant, received notable accolades, including being named the 2020 Whisky of the Year by Whisky Advocate. This prestigious recognition is a testament to Heaven Hill Distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation in distilling.
Larceny Barrel Proof is a non-chill filtered bourbon, released three times a year in limited quantities, and is a descendant of the historic Old Fitzgerald franchise. The mainline Larceny Small Batch has also garnered critical acclaim, with awards from the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a 93 rating and Tried and True Award from the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, and a Consumers’ Choice ranking from the 2020 SIP Awards
Price: How Much Does It Cost?
Larceny Bourbon, with its 750ml bottle priced around $24.99, represents an excellent value for those seeking a high-quality bourbon without a hefty price tag. This affordability, combined with its quality, makes Larceny an attractive option for both casual bourbon drinkers and enthusiasts looking to expand their collection. The bourbon’s smooth profile, attributed to its wheated mash bill, has gained popularity for offering a premium tasting experience at a reasonable cost.
Its pricing and availability can vary slightly depending on the retailer and location, but it remains a competitively priced option in the market, especially when considering its accolades and the positive reception from the bourbon community
Alcohol Content: What’s The ABV?
Larceny Bourbon’s 92 proof (46% ABV) is a deliberate choice, striking a balance that enhances its flavor profile. This alcohol level is designed to carry the bourbon’s rich flavors, such as its characteristic sweetness and wheat-forward profile, while ensuring it remains smooth and accessible.
The moderate ABV makes Larceny versatile, suitable for sipping neat, where its full depth can be appreciated, or as a base in cocktails, where its flavors complement rather than dominate the mix. This approachability is part of what makes Larceny a popular choice among both bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers.
The Best Ways To Enjoy Larceny Bourbon
Larceny Bourbon shines both on its own and as part of a cocktail. Neat, it’s a smooth sipper that lets you appreciate its full flavor profile. On the rocks, it becomes even smoother, with the ice slightly mellowing its sweetness.
For a refreshing twist, try it with a splash of water to unlock even more nuances. Larceny’s versatility also makes it a fantastic base for bourbon cocktails, where its sweet and smooth characteristics can complement a wide range of mixers and flavors. It’s a bourbon that’s easy to enjoy, no matter how you choose to drink it.
Food Pairings
Larceny Bourbon excels in culinary pairings, offering a versatile palette that enhances a wide array of dishes. Here are some specific recommendations:
- Barbecue: The smoky essence of barbecue ribs or brisket is perfectly complemented by the sweet and savory balance of Larceny’s caramel and vanilla notes.
- Chocolate Desserts: A rich chocolate lava cake or brownies can elevate the subtle sweetness and toasted oak hints of Larceny, providing a luxurious finish to a meal.
- Aged Cheeses: Pairing Larceny with a sharp aged cheddar or gouda brings out a fascinating contrast, where the bourbon’s complexity cuts through the cheese’s richness, offering a refined taste experience.
Cocktails
Here are two specific cocktail recipes that showcase Larceny Bourbon’s versatility and rich flavor profile:
Larceny Old Fashioned
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Larceny Bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- Few dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange twist for garnish
- Instructions:
- Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and saturate with bitters.
- Muddle the sugar until dissolved.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and add Larceny Bourbon.
- Stir well and garnish with an orange twist.
Larceny Bourbon Smash
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Larceny Bourbon
- 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- Crushed ice
- Instructions:
- Muddle the lemon wedges and mint leaves with simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add Larceny Bourbon and fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and enjoy.
Larceny Bourbon vs Bulleit Bourbon
Larceny and Bulleit Bourbon offer distinct experiences due to their unique mash bills. Larceny’s wheated mash bill leads to a smoother, sweeter profile, perfect for those seeking a gentler bourbon experience. Its flavors are accessible, making it a solid choice for sipping neat or in cocktails where a softer bourbon is desired.
Bulleit, with its high rye content, presents a spicier, bolder taste, appealing to those who prefer a more robust flavor that holds its own both neat and in mixed drinks. The choice between the two boils down to personal preference for sweetness versus spice.
Want more detail? Check out our Bulleit Bourbon review.
