Sips & Sites & Bites

There’s something undeniably fun happening over at Oaklore Distilling Co. And if their latest duo of limited releases is any indication, they’re not slowing down anytime soon.

Since bursting onto the scene in 2024, Oaklore has built a reputation that most young distilleries would envy: bold ideas, serious craftsmanship, and bottles that tend to disappear almost as quickly as they arrive.

This spring’s Story Series releases … Old Fashioned Finished Four Grain Bourbon and Port Cask Finished Four Grain Bourbon … feel like a victory lap, showcasing both creativity and a deep respect for classic bourbon bones.

Let’s start with the star of the show, the Old Fashioned Finished Four Grain Bourbon. This one is a conversation starter from the first pour. Finished for an additional 18 months in barrels that previously held Oaklore’s own Old Fashioned Cocktail Mixer, it delivers exactly what you’re hoping for … and then some. Think bright orange bitters, warm vanilla, a dusting of snickerdoodle sweetness, and a gentle spice that lingers just long enough to keep things interesting.

What really stands out is how seamlessly it all comes together. It’s not gimmicky or overly sweet, which can sometimes be the risk with cocktail-inspired finishes. Instead, it drinks like a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned that’s been refined, concentrated, and elevated into whiskey form. At 98 proof, it has enough backbone to satisfy seasoned bourbon drinkers, while still being incredibly approachable. Frankly, it’s the kind of bottle you pour for friends when you want to impress them without trying too hard.

The Port Cask Finished Four Grain Bourbon plays a strong supporting role, offering a different, but equally enjoyable, experience. Rested in port barrels that previously aged wine for up to 18 years, it leans into rich dark fruit notes … cherry, raspberry, and a touch of sweet oak. It’s softer at 92 proof, making it an easy sipper with a slightly more dessert-like profile, perfect for winding down the evening.

Both expressions start from the same thoughtful foundation: a four-grain mash bill of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley, aged at least six years before undergoing Oaklore’s meticulous finishing process. The result is a pair of bourbons that feel connected, yet distinctly individual … two different stories told from the same origin.

And that’s really what Oaklore does best. These releases don’t just taste good, they feel intentional. There’s a clear sense of experimentation here, but it’s always grounded in balance and drinkability.

With limited availability and a growing fan base, these bottles won’t be sitting on shelves for long. If you happen to come across the Old Fashioned Finished Bourbon in particular, do yourself a favor and grab it. It’s not just a whiskey, it’s an experience in a glass, and one that’s well worth savoring.