Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon 750ML is a 90-proof (45% ABV) bourbon whiskey finished with Spanish sherry oak staves, bottled at 750ml. It earned a Double Gold medal at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and has scored 94 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in both 2018 and 2021. Quick Facts: ABV: 45% (90 Proof) | Origin: Kentucky, USA | Style: Sherry Oak Finished Bourbon | Distillery: Brain Brew Distillery (Finishing & Bottling) Production & Heritage Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon is distilled at a partner facility in Indiana and finished at Brain Brew Distillery in Newtown, Ohio. After initial maturation in charred new American white oak barrels, the bourbon undergoes a secondary finishing stage using sherry-seasoned European oak staves — a technique borrowed from traditional Scotch whisky production. The sherry oak is sourced through the Master of Wood at Edrington, the Scottish company behind some of the world's most respected single malts, lending this bourbon a distinctive cross-Atlantic pedigree that separates it from conventional double-oaked expressions. Tasting Notes Aroma: The nose opens with bright vanilla and red berries, followed by toasted oak and clove spice. Underneath, subtle green and grassy notes mingle with sweet corn and a faint trace of leather. Taste: The entry is smooth, with caramel and orchard fruit leading into a mid-palate layered with sweet tobacco, walnut, and dried fruit. As the bourbon develops, notes of spearmint, nutmeg, light cocoa, and cherry emerge, delivering a complexity that belies its approachable proof point. Finish: The finish is long and smooth, with lingering sherry sweetness and soft oak tannins that taper gradually. A final whisper of vanilla and warm spice rounds out each sip. How to Drink Noble Oak Double Oak The sherry-influenced complexity rewards neat sipping at room temperature; a few drops of water can open up the orchard fruit and dried fruit notes further. On the rocks, the bourbon remains balanced without losing its core character. Old Fashioned — The caramel and vanilla backbone pairs naturally with a sugar cube and Angostura bitters, while the sherry oak finish adds unexpected depth. Manhattan — The dried fruit and spice notes harmonize with sweet vermouth, creating a richer, more layered cocktail than standard bourbon offerings. Boulevardier — The bourbon's soft oak and cherry notes stand up to Campari's bitterness without being overwhelmed, producing a well-integrated drink. Best For Gifting a bourbon drinker curious about sherry-finished whiskey Exploring cross-category finishing techniques without leaving American whiskey behind Building an award-winning home cocktail bar at a mid-range investment Hosting a bourbon tasting flight comparing finishing methods — charred oak, sherry oak, and port Frequently Asked Questions What does Noble Oak Double Oak taste like? Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon leads with caramel, vanilla, and orchard fruit, followed by sweet tobacco, walnut, and dried fruit, finishing with lingering sherry sweetness and soft oak. How does Noble Oak Double Oak compare to Four Roses Bourbon? Both compete in a similar market segment, but Noble Oak distinguishes itself through its secondary sherry oak finishing process, which adds dried fruit and cocoa complexity not typically found in Four Roses' floral and spice-forward profile. Four Roses is known for its proprietary ten bourbon recipes using two mashbills and five yeast strains, while Noble Oak leans on its unique finishing technique for differentiation. Is Noble Oak Double Oak good for sipping neat? Yes — at 90 proof, it delivers enough intensity for neat sipping while remaining approachable, and the sherry oak finish adds layers of flavor that unfold slowly over time. Where is Noble Oak Double Oak made? Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon is distilled at a partner distillery in Indiana and finished at Brain Brew Distillery in Newtown, Ohio, just outside Cincinnati. What foods pair well with Noble Oak Double Oak? Dark chocolate truffles complement the cocoa and cherry notes; smoked brisket matches the sweet tobacco character; aged cheddar plays well against the caramel and oak; pecan pie echoes the walnut and vanilla; and charcuterie with dried figs mirrors the dried fruit from the sherry finish. What sizes does Noble Oak Double Oak come in? The standard offering is a 750ml bottle, which is the most widely available format. Is Noble Oak Double Oak worth the price? Noble Oak Double Oak positions as a mid-range bourbon with above-average finishing complexity, making it a strong value given its Double Gold at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and consistent 94-point scores at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. Why Noble Oak Double Oak? The defining detail here is the sherry oak sourcing relationship with Edrington's Master of Wood — a connection that gives this bourbon access to cask material typically reserved for premium Scotch whisky production. That single decision shapes everything downstream, from the dried fruit and cocoa undertones to the unusually smooth, sherry-sweet finish. With a Double Gold from SFWSC, a 96-point score at the 2023 Chilled 100 Spirit Awards, and back-to-back 94-point ratings at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, the accolades confirm what the liquid delivers: a bourbon that bridges American and European oak traditions with genuine skill and consistency.
