Old Elk 6 Year Old Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No.2 Bourbon Whiskey

Introduction & History

About Old Elk Distillery

Old Elk is a craft whiskey (and spirits) producer based in Fort Collins, Colorado. It was founded in 2013 by Curt and Nancy Richardson (notably also behind OtterBox and Blue Ocean Enterprises). They collaborate with Master Distiller Greg Metze, who has substantial experience in the whiskey industry (many years at MGP, a large distillery/supplier). (Caskers)

Old Elk produces various spirits: bourbon, rye, vodka, gin, etc. One of their signature features is that they use a mash bill with higher than usual malted barley content in many of their bourbon recipes, which gives their bourbons distinct malted flavors (more grain‑y, sometimes more complexity) than many standard bourbons. (captainberz) They also use something called a “Slow Cut proofing” process, meaning when they reduce the spirit to bottling strength (“cutting to proof”), they do so more gradually, leaving it to rest, allowing flavors to mingle slowly rather than fast, high‑heat proof corrections. This is claimed to preserve more subtle aromatics and improve smoothness. (OldGrogram)

What is the Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No. 2?

The “Sour Mash Reserve” is one of Old Elk’s limited‑release, small batch bourbon offerings. The idea is to return (“a throwback”) to some of the distillery’s startup roots, experimenting with yeast, geographic / fermentation differences, etc., while using their “flagship” high‑malted barley mash bill. The “Small Batch No. 2” denotes the second release (batch) in this Sour Mash Reserve small‑batch line. (captainberz)

Important parameters:

Thus, this bourbon is fairly well‐matured (6 years), relatively high proof, and has a more “grains‑rich” mash bill (especially the malted barley portion) than many bourbons (which might use more corn and less barley). The 15% rye gives some spice in the mix. The “sour mash” process refers to using some leftover mash/fermentation (or at least the sour mash technique) to promote consistent fermentation and flavor. (captainberz)

Key Specifications & Production Details

Here are the key facts, as compiled from company communications, retailer info, and user reports.

• Distillery: Old Elk Distillery, Fort Collins, Colorado. (Caskers)
• Founders: Curt and Nancy Richardson. Master Distiller: Greg Metze. (OldGrogram)
• Mash Bill: 51% corn / 34% malted barley / 15% rye. This is often described as a “high‑malted barley” mash bill. (captainberz)
• Age: 6 years minimum. (pinnacleliquor.com)
• Batch Size: 30 barrels for Small Batch No. 2 (i.e. only 30 barrels blended). (OldGrogram)
• Proof / ABV: 105 proof, which is around 52.5% ABV. Some listings give “104.4 proof” which may be rounding or variation. (Caskers)
• Flavor / Proofing Process: Uses “Slow Cut proofing” (slower dilution / cutting to strength over time) to preserve subtler aromas/flavors. (OldGrogram)
• Barrel Type: Standard new charred oak barrels for the bourbon aging. The finish or special finishing is not part of this expression. (whiskybase.com)

Tasting Notes & Flavor Profile

From retailer descriptions, user / enthusiast reviews, and whisky‑rating sites, here are the tasting impressions and flavor profile you can expect from Old Elk 6 Year Old Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No.2:

Aroma / Nose

• Sweet vanilla and caramel are prominent. (Caskers)
• Oak and char are noticeable. There is a toasted wood / oak aroma. (pinnacleliquor.com)
• Hints of dried fruit. Some reviews mention fruit tones (dried fruit) and butterscotch. (Reddit)
• Subtle baking spice. Perhaps mild rye spice, clove or a little pepper. (pinnacleliquor.com)

Palate / Taste

• Rich and creamy texture noted by many. The texture is often described as smooth, full. (pinnacleliquor.com)
• Flavor components include caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, toasted oak. (Reddit)
• Some dried fruit and spice. The rye in the mash bill shows up with peppery notes; plus there are hints of nut and maybe some toasted malt from the high barley content. (Reddit)

Finish

• The finish is described as long, slightly warming. (Caskers)
• Some remnants of oak, spice, vanillas, caramel linger. (Reddit)

Overall Balance & Character

• It appears this bourbon strikes a good balance between sweetness (corn, vanilla, caramel), maltiness from the barley, and spice from the rye.
• Because of its 6‑year age and decent proof, it has more depth than “young” bourbons; still, it’s not extremely high-aged or finished in weird casks — so its character is more classic bourbon with some craft twists.
• The “Slow Cut proofing” is claimed to help smoothen out the spirit, reduce harshness that sometimes comes from proof dilution. Many reviewers do not mention harsh alcohol burn, which suggests that proofing is well handled. (Reddit)

What People Also Ask (Common Questions & Answers)

Here are questions people tend to have about this particular bourbon, with answers based on what’s known.

Q1: What is the mash bill of Old Elk 6 Year Old Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No.2?

Answer:
The mash bill is 51% corn, 34% malted barley, 15% rye. The high malted barley portion is one of the distinguishing characteristics of Old Elk bourbon expressions, giving a grainier, maltier profile than many bourbon mash bills that use less barley. (captainberz)

Q2: How long is it aged, and is it a straight bourbon?

Answer:
Yes, it is aged for 6 years (minimum). Because it is a bourbon, and it is aged for at least that time, the “straight bourbon” classification is applicable. Old Elk’s Small Batch No. 2 is part of their 6‑year Sour Mash Reserve line. (pinnacleliquor.com)

Q3: What proof / ABV is it bottled at?

Answer:
It is bottled at 105 proof, which is about 52.5% ABV. Some sources list 104.4 proof for the same batch, which could be rounding or variation, but 105 proof is the standard figure cited for this release. (Caskers)

Q4: How many barrels / how limited is Batch No. 2?

Answer:
Batch No. 2 comprises 30 barrels for that small‑batch release. That is a limited number of barrels, so the total bottled quantity is not huge. (Caskers)

Q5: What is the flavor / tasting profile like?

Answer:
Summarizing the tasting notes:

• Nose: Sweet vanilla, caramel, oak, dried fruits, toasted wood, subtle spice.
• Palate: Rich, creamy, bold flavors of caramel, vanilla, oak, some butterscotch, maybe maple or molasses vibes, spice (rye pepper, clove), malt influence from barley, perhaps dried fruit.
• Finish: Long and warming, oak and spice linger, with sweet undertones.

Many drinkers find it smoother than expected given the proof. Some say it’s complex without being overwrought. (Reddit)

Q6: Is this bourbon good value? Is it worth buying?

Answer:
That depends on several factors: your budget, your taste preferences, and how rare / available the bourbon is in your area.

Pros:

• Well‑aged (6 years) for a craft bourbon. Gives more depth than many younger bourbons.
• Higher proof and good balance between sweetness, malt, oak, and spice.
• Limited batch (30 barrels) gives some collectibility and uniqueness.
• Molded with care: the “Slow Cut proofing” and higher malted barley usage suggest craftsmanship and attention to flavor.

Cons:

• Price tends to be fairly high for what some feel is “still bourbon” without exotic finishing or extremely old age. Many buyers compare price vs. flavor intensity.
• Because of its limited nature, availability can be spotty and markups in retail or secondary markets may inflate cost vs. perceived value.
• Some reviews note that despite positive features, it may not “wow” everyone—some may prefer more oak influence or more pronounced rye spice, or more age.

So, if you like bourbon, especially ones with malted barley influence or craft bourbons, this is likely worth a try. If price is premium and you value extremely aged or rare bourbons more, you may want to compare with other options before purchasing.

Q7: How does Batch No. 2 compare with Batch No. 1 or other Old Elk offerings?

Answer:
While reviews differ, some comparisons emerge:

• Batch No. 1 of the Sour Mash Reserve was noted as having more herbal / dill / rye spice notes by some users. Some described its nose as more herbal than sweet, maybe less immediately approachable. (Reddit)
• Batch No. 2 seems to be designed / produced to be more rounded, perhaps smoother, more accessible, with more of the sweet/malty side balanced with oak and spice. It may appeal more broadly.
• Compared to Old Elk’s standard Bourbon and other expressions (e.g. wheated, staff picks, etc.), the Sour Mash Reserve line is more “grain‑forward” (due to high malted barley), more adventurous, and positioned as a premium small batch.

Q8: What is the “Slow Cut proofing” process, and does it make a big difference?

Answer:
The “Slow Cut proofing” is a term Old Elk uses to describe how they reduce the barrel‑strength or high proof spirit down to bottling strength in a slower, more controlled fashion than the standard 24‑48 hour practice. They claim that by doing this, and letting the spirit rest between adjustments, heat (from high proof, from dilution) is avoided or moderated, allowing lighter aromatics and subtler flavors to remain intact. (OldGrogram)

Whether it makes a “big” difference is somewhat subjective: many drinkers report that the bourbon is smooth and balanced given its proof, and not overly harsh. However, whether that is due specifically to the proofing process vs. barrel selection / aging / mash bill is harder to isolate. But the effect is generally viewed positively by those who mention it.

Q9: Where is it available / how much does it cost?

Answer:

• Price: Retail listings tend to put it in the USD $90–$100 range in many parts of the U.S. Some stores offer ~$80‑$100 depending on tax / shipping / markup. (pinnacleliquor.com)
• Availability: Limited, especially because only 30 barrels per batch are used. It’s not massively distributed. In states where Old Elk is shipped or sold, you may find it in select liquor stores, bars, or through online retailers that carry premium bourbons. Also, collectors and enthusiasts sometimes find it via whiskey auctions or secondary markets.
• Retailer examples: Pinnacle Liquor & Wine, OldGrogram, Caskers, etc. (pinnacleliquor.com)

Q10: How should one drink it / pair it?

Answer:

• Neat is the obvious first try: given its proof and 6‑year aging, you’ll want to sense aroma, palate, finish without dilution.
• After an initial taste, try a few drops of water; that can open up the aroma (vanilla, dried fruit, malt) and tame rather strong proof edges if present.
• In a large rocks or wide bowl glass to let it breathe a bit.
• Pairing: something that complements its sweet, buttery, vanilla, oak, malted barley, and spice tones. Dessert or snacks with caramel, nuts; also cheese plates (aged cheddar), dark chocolate; possibly grilled meats for contrast of char & smoke.
• Cocktails: because it’s high proof and flavor‑rich, using it in whiskey‑centric cocktails (Old Fashioned, Manhattan) can work, but might overpower subtler cocktail ingredients. Use with care (balance).

Reviews & Community Feedback

It helps to see what enthusiasts are saying — both positives and criticisms — to understand how this bourbon actually performs in practice.

Positive Feedback

From Reddit post “Old Elk small batch Reserve Batch 2 (limited to 5000 bottles from 30 total barrels)” and other users:

“very nice toasty oak, caramel, vanilla smell with a mouthful of tasty butterscotch, dried fruit and interesting spices. … Great long smooth finish at 105 proof … begs me to keep pouring more … different tasting than most whiskey I’ve found.” (Reddit)

These are strong endorsements of aroma, flavor, finish, and drinkability.

Many say it has better depth than many bourbons in its price range, especially because of its high malted barley content. The “malt” is often highlighted as giving a grain‑note that some bourbons lack. (captainberz)

Criticisms / Caveats

From various threads:

• Some people feel the price is high relative to what it offers. That is, “overpriced for what it is” is a recurring theme. (Reddit)
• Some buyers find that, while good, it doesn’t completely deliver “wow” compared to much more expensive or older bourbons. The balance is good, but not everyone is blown away (which isn’t a surprise).
• A few mention that some bottles are a bit “hot” or that alcohol or oak dominates initially, before sweetness or malt comes through. That can be typical in higher proof, younger bourbons.

Ratings

• On Whiskybase, Batch 2 of the Sour Mash Reserve is rated about 88/100 in some reviews. (whiskybase.com)
• Reviewer blogs note that while the bourbon is rich and complex, value is more limited. Some say it’s “worth a try” but may not be a universal substitute for much older or finished bourbons. (captainberz)

Comparison With Other Bourbons

It’s useful to see how this bourbon stacks up with others, both from Old Elk’s own line and broadly among bourbons.

• Versus Old Elk standard/entry offerings: The Sour Mash Reserve line is more premium. More age, more barrels blended deliberately, more attention to malted barley, and proof is higher. So for someone who already likes Old Elk’s standard bourbon, Batch No.2 likely offers a more intense, more nuanced experience.
• Versus bourbons with similar mash bills: The high malted barley content isn’t super common. Many bourbons are heavy on corn (60‑80%) with rye or wheat as secondary. Having 34% malted barley is significant; it gives a different flavor profile (grain, malt, some nuttiness, etc.). So it is somewhat unique in that group.
• Versus bourbons at similar age and proof: In the 5‑7 year, ~100‑110 proof range, there are many bourbons. What distinguishes this one is the flavor profile (malt, balance of spice, sweetness) and the craft / small batch storytelling. If aged bourbons (10 years+) or special finishes are your interest, those may offer richer oak/chocolate/tobacco profiles. This one shines in flavor complexity and drinkability rather than “extreme” characteristics.

Pros & Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the strengths and weaknesses.

Strengths

1. Flavor complexity: The combination of high malted barley, rye spice, oak, vanilla, caramel, and fruit gives it layers, so you discover more as you sip.
2. Good age & proof: 6 years gives reasonable barrel maturity, and 105 proof gives enough strength to carry those flavors without being overwhelmingly harsh (for many drinkers).
3. Limited small batch appeal: Only 30 barrels, batch No.2, so for collectors / enthusiasts this is more interesting.
4. Craft and process details: Slow cut proofing, attention to fermentation / yeast, etc., denote attention to detail. These can make a real difference in mouthfeel and aroma.
5. Finish & drinkability: Many reviews praise its long, warming finish and how drinkable it becomes after a moment’s rest.

Weaknesses / Risk Areas

1. Price: It can be on the expensive side, especially with markups and shipping/taxes. For some buyers, value may be borderline vs. what they expect from a bourbon at $90‑100.
2. Bottle variation & availability: As with all small batches, some bottles may be better than others. Also, limited supply means some may pay premium.
3. Oak / heat: For those not used to 100+ proof bourbon, the initial “heat” or oak intensity may be strong; requires sipping, maybe water to open it up.
4. Not “finished” or exotic: The bourbon is not finished in unusual casks or given exotic maturation, so if you prefer bourbons with heavy finishing / flavour experimentation, this won’t be as adventurous in its finishing profile.

Frequently Asked / “People Also Ask” Style Questions

Here are several questions people often search about this bourbon, plus answers:

“What does ‘Sour Mash Reserve’ mean with Old Elk?”

Answer:
“Sour mash” refers to a bourbon production technique where some portion of “old” mash (from previous fermentation) is used in the new mash to help control pH, promote consistent fermentation, and influence flavor. “Reserve” in this case is just a brand / naming sense meaning a more curated, premium version. So Sour Mash Reserve in Old Elk’s usage is a limited/premium small batch bourbon using sour mash technique and their signature high‑malt mash bill. (captainberz)

“Is Old Elk 6 Year Small Batch No.2 considered a straight bourbon?”

Answer:
Yes. It is aged at least 6 years, uses only allowed Bourbon ingredients (corn, malted barley, rye), matured in new charred oak barrels, bottled at ≥40% ABV, etc. Thus it meets the regulatory definitions for Straight Bourbon. The “Small Batch” and “Reserve” are marketing / production labels, but do not disqualify it from the “straight” classification (assuming no disallowed modifications). (captainberz)

“How much malted barley does Old Elk use, and why is that important?”

Answer:
Old Elk uses 34% malted barley in this mash bill (51% corn, 15% rye being the others). This is high compared to many bourbons that may have perhaps 5‑10% barley (if using barley for enzyme and malt‑flavor contributions). Malted barley contributes fermentable sugars, but more importantly flavor: malted grain, bread dough, cereal notes; sometimes more texture, possibly more sweetness or grain complexity. It can also affect the mouthfeel, how “grainy” or “malt forward” a bourbon feels. In Old Elk’s case, many reviewers praise the barley presence. (captainberz)

“Where is Old Elk bourbon distilled / sourced?”

Answer:
Old Elk’s bourbon is distilled (or sourced) in collaboration: Greg Metze has long connections with MGP, and many Old Elk products are MGP‑sourced or at least use spirits from external distilleries for initial distillation (though final aging, blending, proofing, etc. is handled under Old Elk’s oversight). However, the Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch seems to be fully under Old Elk’s production (aging at their facility, or at least handled by them) and using their own mash bill or custom spirit. Some sourcing likely comes from partner distilleries initially for some products. But for this particular 6‑year expression, the production is in their own small batch control. (captainberz)

“How does this bourbon compare to similar bourbons in price / flavor?”

Answer:
As noted, it is in the premium craft bourbon price bracket. Some other bourbons of 6 years, ~100+ proof, and relatively small batch nature might cost similar. What makes Old Elk’s No.2 stand out are: higher malted barley content, craft proofs, attention to fermentation / proofing, and limited barrels. So for flavor, many buyers feel it offers more complexity than many bourbons at similar price with lower malt content or lower proof. But others argue that for the price, there are older bourbons or special finishes that might deliver more oak depth, more smoke or more complexity. So whether it “punches above its weight” depends on your priorities: smoothness, sweetness, malt flavors, vs heavy oak, age, or finishing novelty.

Conclusion & My Take

After reviewing all the data, tasting impressions, community feedback, and comparisons, here are my observations and a conclusion regarding Old Elk 6 Year Old Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No. 2 Bourbon:

What I Think It Does Well

• Balanced Flavor: It balances sweetness and grain well. The corn provides the sweetness, the malted barley gives texture, and the rye brings a spice element without overwhelming. That makes it interesting and more “grainy” than many bourbons.
• Liquidity & Drinkability: At 105 proof, it has strength but not punishing. Many users say it smoothes out well, especially after breathing or adding a drop of water. It doesn’t feel overly harsh.
• Complexity & Depth: There are multiple layers—vanilla, oak, dried fruit, spice, malt—that develop over time in the glass. It’s not a flat, one‑dimensional bourbon.
• Small Batch / Craft Appeal: For bourbon enthusiasts who like limited releases, craftsmanship, and wanting something distinctive, this fits nicely. Having only 30 barrels in the batch, 6 years age, etc., gives it desirability.

What Might Be Limitations for Some

• Value vs Price: If priced too high, some drinkers may feel they are paying more for the name or small batch status than for dramatic flavor innovations. For example, if you’re someone who wants heavy oak, sherry finishing, or 12+ years of age, this bourbon may not satisfy that.
• Initial Heat / Oak: Some bottles or pours may show proof or oak upfront more than sweetness or malt. If you’re sensitive to harsh alcohol, this might require letting it breathe or diluting slightly.
• Variability & Availability: Given the nature of small batches, different barrels or bottles may vary. Also, distribution and price vary regionally; in some places, this may be harder to find or quite expensive.

Final Conclusion

Old Elk 6 Year Old Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No.2 is a strong, well‑made bourbon that offers something a bit different in its mash bill (lots of malted barley), its proofing approach, and its flavor balance. If you are someone who enjoys bourbons that aren’t just corn‑sweetness and oak, but with grain complexity and spice, this is likely to please. It’s not likely to be the most “extreme” expression out there, but that’s part of its charm: it gives a premium, approachable, flavorful bourbon with some depth.

If I were you and had the chance, I would:

• Try a sample before buying a full bottle if possible, to see how it behaves in your climate / with your palate.
• Let it breathe; possibly add a drop of water if initial proof/heat is strong.
• Use it for sipping first, rather than mixing heavily, so you can appreciate its subtleties.
• Also compare it with a few similarly aged bourbons with different mash bills (lower barley, different finishes) to see whether the “malt effect” is something you prefer.

Overall, for its category, I think Old Elk 6 Year Old Sour Mash Reserve Small Batch No.2 is well worth a bottle for enthusiasts, certainly worth a pour to explore. If priced fairly (not overly marked up), it offers very good flavor, craftsmanship, and uniqueness.