The James E. Pepper Decanter Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon (750ml) is a premium, high-proof expression that celebrates the resurrection of one of Kentucky’s most historic whiskey legacies. Packaged in an eye-catching, vintage-style decanter modeled after a post-WWII 1945 design, this expression is distilled and bottled entirely in-house at the revived, historic DSP-KY-5 distillery in Lexington, Kentucky. Crafted with the distillery's unique limestone well water, it is composed of a blend of older stocks using distinct mash bills of corn, rye, malted barley, and malted rye.
The whiskey is aged in new Kentucky oak barrels that have been air-seasoned for 18 to 24 months and toasted before receiving a heavy char. Because it is barreled at a relatively low-entry proof, the resulting bourbon minimizes heavy wood dryness and instead highlights a deep, natural sweetness. Bottled straight from the cask—uncut and unfiltered—it presents a powerful yet remarkably smooth tasting profile. The nose opens with rich aromas of toasted oak, walnuts, and stone fruits like apricot, backed by vanilla cream. On the palate, a full-bodied, oily texture features heavy vanilla, dried dark fruits, and marzipan. This leads into a medium-long, warming finish that carries notes of creamy vanilla, citrus peel, and baking spices like nutmeg.
Because of its high proof and robust profile of rich vanilla, stone fruits, and warm baking spices, this bourbon stands up remarkably well to intense, savory flavors. It pairs beautifully alongside rich meats like slow-smoked beef brisket, brown sugar glazed pork belly, or a charred ribeye steak, where the high alcohol content effortlessly cuts through the heavy fat. The whiskey also complements decadent desserts such as dark chocolate truffles, pecan pie, or bread pudding, which mirror its sweet vanilla and nut characteristics. For a simpler pairing, a plate of aged sharp cheddar or smoky blue cheese offers a sharp, savory contrast that highlights the bourbon's deeper caramel tones.
