There’s something captivating about a bourbon that tells a story. Kentucky Senator Bourbon isn’t just another high-proof bottle on the shelf—it’s a carefully curated series that honors the political pioneers who helped shape the Commonwealth and the nation. With each release named after a historical senator, this line marries Kentucky’s rich political legacy with its most iconic spirit.
The latest release in the series, Kentucky Senator Bourbon – John G. Edwards Release, pays homage to a figure often overshadowed in history books, yet central to the creation of Kentucky itself. And just like the senator it honors, this bourbon is both robust and complex, with a character that demands attention.
The Man Behind the Label: John G. Edwards
Before Kentucky became the 15th state in the Union, John Glover Edwards played a pivotal role in its founding. Born in Stafford County, Virginia, in 1748, Edwards relocated to what would become Bourbon County, Kentucky, in the late 18th century. A respected farmer and politician, he was instrumental in advocating for Kentucky’s statehood. When it achieved independence from Virginia in 1792, Edwards was elected one of the first two U.S. Senators from the new state.
Though he served only one term in the Senate, his influence continued in the Kentucky House of Representatives. Naming this release after Edwards is fitting—not just for his namesake Bourbon County, but for the foundational role he played in giving Kentucky a voice on the national stage.
The Brand’s Vision: History, Heritage & High Proof
Kentucky Senator Spirits, helmed by Andre Regard and former Kentucky State Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer, set out with a simple mission: to deliver premium, age-stated, high-proof bourbon in small batches, while honoring Kentucky’s statesmen. Each release comes with historical context, lending not just flavor but narrative weight to every pour.
With the John G. Edwards Release (Release #6), at $120 a bottle, the team has sourced a 7½-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon and bottled it at a bold 107 proof. The mash bill follows a familiar yet beloved recipe: 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. The result is a bourbon that is at once traditional and expressive—a true nod to the golden era of Kentucky whiskey.
Tasting Notes
The bourbon presents a rich, deep amber in the glass, hinting at its age and well-integrated oak influence. Swirling it reveals slow-moving legs, signaling a syrupy, full-bodied experience to come.
The first sniff brings a warm, classic bourbon bouquet: brown sugar, caramelized banana, and cherry compote, layered with cinnamon bark, nutmeg, and a wisp of pipe tobacco. As it opens, earthy undertones of leather and roasted coffee beans emerge, bringing depth and complexity.
The entry to the palate is bold yet refined. A wave of dark brown sugar and vanilla bean coats the tongue, quickly followed by candied walnuts, baking spice, and a bright pop of red fruit—somewhere between cherry lozenge and pomegranate. The high rye content gives it a zesty kick mid-palate, while the mouthfeel remains impressively silky and viscous, delivering richness without being cloying.
The finish is where the bourbon truly shines. A long, dry finish of charred oak, black pepper, and a touch of cocoa powder lingers well after the last sip. There’s a satisfying crescendo of heat and spice, which slowly fades into a warm, leathery softness—like the last pages of a well-worn book.
The John G. Edwards Release is more than just a well-aged Kentucky bourbon—it’s a bourbon with purpose. The folks at Kentucky Senator have found the sweet spot between heritage and indulgence: honoring unsung political heroes while delivering a product that serious bourbon enthusiasts can appreciate.
Kentucky Senator Bourbon – John G. Edwards Release is a dignified, flavor-forward, and historically rich bottle that stands tall among its peers. It delivers on all the key notes—aroma, mouthfeel, finish, and narrative. It’s a bottle you’ll want to share with fellow history buffs and bourbon lovers alike. A collector’s dream at only 2,000 bottles, a sipper’s delight, and a toast-worthy tribute to one of Kentucky’s earliest statesmen.
The Kentucky Senator line has carved out a compelling niche—one where storytelling and craftsmanship meet. This release continues that tradition with confidence, depth, and class.
Cheers!
This bourbon rates 5 out of 5 barrels.
