Three Chord Bourbon Strange Collaboration (750Ml)

Three Chord Strange Collaboration starts as Kentucky straight bourbon. It is a blend of whiskeys aged three to six years. The mash bill is 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley. The bourbon then spends three months in French oak casks that once held Pinot Noir. Those casks come from Strange Family Vineyards, which gives the bottle its name.

Three Chord was started by musician Neil Giraldo. His idea is simple. Learn the three basic chords well and you can play almost anything. With whiskey, that means getting the basics right and letting them shine. The finishing and bottling happen at Steel Bending Spirits in Chelsea, Michigan.

Lift the glass and you will notice sweet, fresh corn. Cherry, raspberry and plum come through right after. On the palate it feels fresh and layered. Light caramel and vanilla lead, then clove and dark fruit join in. At 99 proof it has some strength, yet the texture stays silky. The finish brings a soft trace of Pinot Noir and what the brand calls a mild hug.

Strange Collaboration has picked up real praise. It won Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The Tasting Panel gave it 94 points in 2023. That same year it took Double Gold at the Proof Awards.

Try it neat first so you catch the wine cask. A few rocks or a rich Old Fashioned work well too. Serve it with grilled steak, smoky barbecue, aged cheese or dark chocolate. If you enjoy bourbon with a fruity twist, this one is worth a spot on your shelf. Wine drinkers who are curious about whiskey will feel right at home.