Bardstown Bourbon Company Founders KBS Aged Stout Barrel Finish Bourbon Whiskey

Bardstown Bourbon Co. × Founders Brewing: KBS Stout Barrel Finish Bourbon

1. Overview & Collaboration Background

• The expression is a collaborative release between Bardstown Bourbon Company (Kentucky) and Founders Brewing Company (Grand Rapids, Michigan). (Lane Report)
• It is part of Bardstown’s Collaborative Series, wherein their sourced or matured bourbons are finished in unique barrels (wine, beer, spirit casks) to produce limited, experimental expressions. (Lane Report)
• In this case, the base bourbon is aged 10 years and then finished for 15 months in barrels that had held Founders’ KBS stout. (Breaking Bourbon)
• KBS stands for Kentucky Breakfast Stout — an imperial stout brewed by Founders, aged in bourbon barrels, with strong coffee, chocolate, vanilla, and oak character. (Founders Brewing Company)
• The idea is a “looped” relationship: the stout is aged in bourbon barrels, then that beer barrel is reused for bourbon finishing.
• Their press release states that once Founders empties the KBS barrels in Michigan, the very same barrels are shipped and refilled with bourbon at Bardstown. (Breaking Bourbon)
• The release is limited, positioned as a premium “finishing / experimental” bourbon. (The Bourbon Report)

Thus, this bottle is not a standard “house bourbon” but a stylized finishing experiment, drawing flavor influence from beer (stout) barrels to infuse chocolate, roast, malt, and dark fruit notes.

2. Technical Specs & Production Details

Base Bourbon & Mash Bill

• The base spirit is a 10‑year aged Tennessee bourbon, which implies that the source bourbon is distilled in Tennessee (though Bardstown sources it, not necessarily from their own distillation). (Breaking Bourbon)
• The mash bill is given as 84% corn, 8% rye, 8% malted barley. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Tennessee bourbon may suggest charcoal filtering (as is typical in Tennessee style), but the finishing process likely overshadows or interacts with that. (No direct confirmation found.)

Aging & Finishing

• First maturation: ≥10 years in new, charred American oak barrels (standard bourbon practice). (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)
• Then finished / secondary maturation: 15 months in ex‑KBS stout barrels (barrels previously used to age Founders’ KBS stout). (Breaking Bourbon)
• During this finishing, flavors from residual stout character (roasted malt, chocolate/coffee, residual sugars, oak) are intended to infuse into the bourbon.

Proof & Bottling

• Bottled at 110 proof (i.e. 55% ABV). (Breaking Bourbon)
• It is labeled as a straight bourbon finished (i.e. a straight bourbon that undergoes finishing) — the “finish in stout barrel” rather than a blended product. (Breaking Bourbon)
• The color is dark amber / deep hue (in line with bourbon + stout barrel influence). (Breaking Bourbon)

Release & Price

• Suggested retail price (at release) ~ US$159.99 for the 750 mL bottle. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Distribution is limited; available via Bardstown’s gift shop and specialty retailers. (Lane Report)
• It’s treated as a high-end, collectible / limited release, not a mass-market bourbon. (Lane Report)

3. Tasting Profile: Nose, Palate, Finish & Character

Let’s examine the known tasting notes from expert reviews, community tasting feedback, and official sources.

Nose (Aroma)

• Whisky Advocate: “semi‑sweet delights, with orange peel, dark chocolate, Andes mints, vanilla extract… nestled in a bright pine forest.” (Whisky Advocate)
• Breaking Bourbon review: “cigar box | cocoa | citrus | toasted oak | surprisingly subdued” on the nose. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Reddit reviews:
  • “Nose: flambéed orange slices, dark chocolate, pipe tobacco, maple syrupy sweetness, allspice, cherry cordial, coffee beans.” (Reddit)
  • “Sweet malt | Chocolate | Maple | Molasses | Oak” as part of the profile. (Reddit)
• Distiller listing: lists it as “dark amber” and notes maturation, finishing. (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)

Thus, the nose brings forward chocolate/roasted malt, coffee, citrus peel, dark fruit, oak, and a touch of vanilla / syrup sweetness.

Palate (Flavor & Mid‑palate)

• Breaking Bourbon: “Black raspberry | Cherry | Juicy | Dark chocolate | Hazelnut | Roasted coffee beans | Creamy mouthfeel | Hint of rye spice on the backend.” (Breaking Bourbon)
• Whisky Advocate: “flavors follow the nose… water brings out candied maple and coconut.” (Whisky Advocate)
• Expert review in whiskyadvocate emphasized roasty turn with toasted coconut, maple syrup, dark chocolate plus sea salt in finish. (Whisky Advocate)
• Community / Reddit feedback:
  • “Taste: sweet arrival: cherry, orange and barrel char transitioning to cocoa powder and espresso.” (Reddit)
  • “Sweet malt, chocolate, coffee, vanilla, oak” as expected stout‑finish notes. (Reddit)

The palate is expected to combine rich stout-derived flavors (roast, chocolate, coffee, malt) layered on top of the foundational bourbon traits (corn sweetness, oak, spice), producing complexity and dessert-like character.

Finish

• Breaking Bourbon: “finish: Rye spice intensifies | Cocoa | Fresh black cherry | Medium length.” (Breaking Bourbon)
• Whisky Advocate: “the finish takes a roasty turn, with toasted coconut, maple syrup, and dark chocolate sprinkled with sea salt.” (Whisky Advocate)
• Community review (Reddit): “Finish: Dark chocolate.” (Reddit)
• Some mention lingering oak, pepper / spice notes behind the dessert flavors. (Breaking Bourbon)

Thus, finish blends roast / chocolate continuity, moderate spice, oak, with moderate length — not overwhelmingly long, but rich and warming.

Overall Character & Balance

• The stout finishing is well integrated; it does not completely dominate the bourbon base but accentuates flavor depth. Breaking Bourbon says it doesn’t overtly scream “stout barrel” but is an “exceptionally well-integrated marriage” of whiskey + stout cask influence. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Some tasters expected stronger influence from the stout barrels but found the expressions more harmonious than overt. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Because the finishing is lengthy (15 months), some of the stout influence is deep, not just surface-level aromatics.
• The profile leans toward dessert / dark chocolate / roast notes: many call it a “dessert bourbon” style. Reddit user: “This is definitely a dessert sipper. Very chocolate and vanilla forward like KBS is.” (Reddit)

So the character is bold, rich, dark, but not aggressive; it sits on the boundary between bourbon and beer-barrel-aged hybrid flavor profiles.

4. “People Also Ask” – Common Questions & Answers

Below are frequently asked questions that people might Google about this expression, along with reasoned answers based on available sources.

Q1. What is Bardstown Bourbon Founders KBS Stout Finish?

Answer:
It is a collaborative bourbon from Bardstown Bourbon Company and Founders Brewing. A Tennessee bourbon aged 10 years is finished for 15 months in barrels previously used to age Founders’ KBS stout. The result is a straight bourbon (finished) bottled at 110 proof (55% ABV). (Breaking Bourbon)

Q2. What is KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout)?

Answer:
KBS is an imperial barrel‑aged stout brewed by Founders Brewing. It is brewed with chocolate and coffee, then aged in bourbon barrels, which imparts flavors of vanilla, cocoa, char, and oak. It typically has ABV ~12%. (Founders Brewing Company)

Thus, the finishing barrels used in the bourbon held KBS beer, bringing residual stout character into the bourbon.

Q3. How long is the bourbon aged and finished?

Answer:

• Primary aging: 10 years in new charred oak barrels. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Secondary finishing: 15 months in ex‑KBS stout barrels. (Breaking Bourbon)

Q4. What is the mash bill of this bourbon?

Answer:
84% corn, 8% rye, 8% malted barley. (Breaking Bourbon)

Q5. What is the proof / ABV?

Answer:
It is bottled at 110 proof, i.e. 55% ABV. (Breaking Bourbon)

Q6. What does Founders KBS Stout Barrel Finish taste like?

Answer:

• Nose: Cocoa, toasted oak, citrus/orange peel, subtle roast, vanilla, cigar box. (Whisky Advocate)
• Palate: Cherry, black raspberry, dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, hazelnut, creamy mouthfeel, malt, spice from the rye. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Finish: Cocoa and dark fruit lingering, spice intensification, toast/roast notes, possibly sea salt or oak dryness. (Whisky Advocate)

In summary: a dessert-forward, roast‑dark, chocolate / fruit / malt profile layered over a solid bourbon base.

Q7. Is this a good value / worth buying?

Answer:
That depends on expectations and pricing. Pros: unique experiment, strong flavor, limited edition, collectible appeal. Many reviewers praise its integration and richness. (Breaking Bourbon)
Cons: Price is high (~$160 MSRP), some feel stout finish influence is not fully dominant. As public reviews note, those expecting overt stout flavor may be disappointed by subtlety. (Breaking Bourbon)
One Reddit reviewer gave 88/100: good but not perfect, especially considering price. (Reddit)

Thus, for fans of stout-finished whiskies or bourbon experiments, it’s compelling; for purists wanting just bourbon, the premium may not justify it.

Q8. Where and when was it released?

Answer:
Released in February 2022. (Lane Report) It is limited, sold at Bardstown’s gift shop and select retailers. (Lane Report)

Q9. Does the stout finish overwhelm the bourbon?

Answer:
According to reviews, no — the finish is integrated rather than overwhelming. Breaking Bourbon notes that on the nose it is “surprisingly subdued” and the bourbon base still shows. (Breaking Bourbon) Some drinkers, however, hoped for more barrel influence; others say the stout influence is strong but balanced. (Reddit)

Q10. How should you drink / enjoy this bourbon?

Answer:

• Neat, in a tulip / Glencairn glass, to appreciate aromas.
• Add a few drops of water to open up deeper notes (maple, coconut) as reviewers suggest. (Whisky Advocate)
• On large ice (optional) if you want a chilled sipper — but ice may mute subtle finishing notes.
• Pair with dark chocolate, coffee desserts, nuts, cigars — flavors that complement roast / malt / chocolate notes.
• Let the bourbon rest in the glass for a few minutes before tasting to allow aromas to evolve.

5. Strengths, Weaknesses & Criticisms

Strengths

• Innovative finishing: The beer barrel finishing (KBS stout) is creative and appeals to hybrid drinkers (beer + whiskey).
• Flavor integration: Reviewers praise that the stout notes are well integrated, not just superficial “barrel overcoat.” (Breaking Bourbon)
• Dessert / bold profile: Rich, roasted, chocolate, malt, fruit — ideal for sipping slowly.
• Limited / collectible appeal: Its novelty and limited nature increase desirability among enthusiasts.
• Solid base whiskey: A 10-year bourbon foundation gives structure; the finishing adds character rather than masking weakness.

Weaknesses / Critiques

• High price: The MSRP ($160) is steep, meaning the drink has to justify that premium.
• Finish subtlety: Some expected more dramatic stout influence; the finishing may not be overt to all palates. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Potential overshadowing: With 15 months finishing, there’s a risk the stout barrels might dominate the base — though many feel Bardstown managed this risk.
• Not for purists: If you prefer classic unadulterated bourbon, the finishing may feel “gimmicky” or diverging from traditional styles.
• Availability & markup: In markets outside U.S., high import costs could inflate the price significantly, reducing value.

One commentator in bourbon forums remarked that some of Bardstown’s finishing durations across releases are too long, such that the finishing barrel tastes may overwhelm the underlying whiskey. (Reddit)

Also, a Reddit user noted:

“I did have high hopes … while this Bardstown isn’t amazing, it’s pretty tasty … the finishing isn’t lost in the final product … but I expected more …” (Reddit)

Thus, while many appreciate it, some feel expectations should be moderated.

6. Comparison With Other Bourbon / Stout‑Finished Whiskies

• Compared to standard bourbon expressions (without finishing), this bottle offers added complexity, roast, malt, coffee, chocolate layers — giving a different flavor axis.
• Compared to beer barrel–finished whiskies, it competes with expressions like Balcones (Texas whisky), or some Japanese whiskies with beer finish; but the KBS collaboration is distinct because of the stout being barrel-aged itself (rather than a fresh beer).
• Compared to other Bardstown Collaborative releases (wine, brandy, other beer barrels), its integration and stout character make it a standout in their roster. Bardstown’s collaborative portfolio includes finishings in wine, brandy, etc. (Lane Report)
• Compared to popular stout-finished whiskies like those finished in Bourbon County Stout barrels or Goose Island BCBS, flavor profiles may lean differently due to stout choice and finishing regimen.
• It may outshine more generic bourbon for those wanting dessert whiskey, but may not match very aged / single barrel / cask strength bourbons for sheer depth.

7. Availability, Price & Market Considerations

• At release, the MSRP was ~$159.99 in U.S. markets. (Breaking Bourbon)
• Some liquor shops list it as high as ~$179.99 (750 mL) when stock is constrained. (Preet’s Liquors)
• Because it’s limited, secondary market prices may exceed MSRP depending on collector demand.
• International / import markets (e.g. Africa, Cameroon) will add shipping, duty, distributor markup — possibly doubling or more the U.S. baseline cost.
• Given its experimental nature, only specialty whiskey shops or importers are likely to stock it outside core U.S. markets.

Given that, one must assess carefully — whether the extra cost is justifiable relative to alternatives.

8. Community / User Reactions & Anecdotes

From bourbon forums / Reddit:

• Positive reception:
  • Reddit user: “The bourbon is extremely sweet. Very chocolate and vanilla forward like KBS is. This is definitely a dessert sipper.” (Reddit)
  • Another: “The nose foreshadowed the palate well … the finishing isn’t lost … good bottle.” (Reddit)
  • Some expressed excitement at the beer‑to‑whiskey crossover and novelty. (Reddit)
• Some disappointment / tempered expectations:
  • One stated: “I expected more “complexity” but found it pretty good anyway; I might dock points for price vs depth.” (Reddit)
  • Others note the finish is balanced but not overpowering — not everyone loves subtlety. (Reddit)

Thus, the general sentiment is favorable among those receptive to beer-barrel finishing, though some caution against overhyping.

9. Frequently Asked Extra / Niche Questions

Q: Is this a “true bourbon” even though it is finished in stout barrels?

Answer:
Yes. Because the finishing is secondary and the primary aging is in new charred oak (as required for bourbon law), and the base is a straight bourbon, the finishing does not disqualify it. It is still labeled a straight bourbon finished. (Breaking Bourbon)

Q: Does finishing in beer barrels violate U.S. bourbon regulations?

Answer:
No. U.S. regulations allow finishing or re‑racking into used barrels (beer, wine, etc.) as long as the base spirit meets bourbon standards (mash bill ≥ 51% corn, aged in new charred oak, etc.). The finishing does not change classification, though some purists debate purity.

Q: Will the stout finish age further in bottle (i.e. improve with time)?

Answer:
Possibly to some degree (as with most whiskies), but the majority of flavor development happens in the barrel. In bottle, slow oxidation and maturation may alter mouthfeel and integrate flavors more. But gains will be subtle.

Q: Is it better to add water or drink neat?

Answer:
Neat is ideal to perceive full flavor. A few drops of water may open up notes (maple, coconut, dark fruit), as Whisky Advocate found. (Whisky Advocate) Over‑dilution may mute the finishing.

Q: Will ice ruin the finishing effect?

Answer:
Large ice (big cubes) is safer — less dilution. Ensure you taste earlier, before the finishing layers are masked. Over time, too much water can flatten the subtler stout-derived flavors.

Q: How to compare batches / authenticity?

Answer:
Check label, batch number, proof, cork/seal quality. Compare with official images or retailer listings. For expensive limited releases, counterfeits are possible in some markets — buy from trusted sources. Also check for consistent bottle fill, label alignment, capsule etc.

10. Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Summary
The Bardstown Bourbon Company × Founders KBS Stout Barrel Finish is a striking collaboration, merging the worlds of whiskey and stout in a bold, dessert-style bourbon. With a base bourbon aged 10 years and then finished for 15 months in KBS stout barrels, it delivers chocolate, roast, coffee, dark fruit, and oak in a layered, balanced fashion.

Best for

• Drinkers who enjoy exploring experimental whiskey finishes.
• Fans of stout / dark beer flavors who want to see how they integrate in bourbon.
• Those who collect limited releases and want something unique.
• Sipping neat over cocktails — its character is best enjoyed slowly.

Cautions

• It carries a premium price. The cost must align with your enjoyment or collector value.
• If your palate leans toward classic, unadorned bourbon, the stout finishing may feel outside your taste.
• In markets outside the U.S., import markups may erode value.
• Don’t expect every flavor cue to be obvious — some influence is subtle.

Personal verdict (hypothetical for a buyer like you in Cameroon / Africa)
If I were sitting where you are, evaluating this bottle, I’d consider:

1. The landed cost vs my whiskey budget.
2. Whether I have the audience / context to drink / share a special bottle.
3. If I enjoy dessert / stout / dark-flavored spirits — this could be a highlight.
4. Whether collecting experimental whiskey appeals to me.

If the price isn’t overly inflated and you’re curious, this is a compelling one-off to try — not a daily bourbon but a special occasion pour.