Rowans Creek is a small-batch Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at ~100.1 proof (50.05% ABV), known for its sweet caramel & vanilla backbone, subtle floral and grassy notes, and warming spice finish. Its approachable but with enough proof and character to satisfy bourbon lovers who enjoy complexity without overly aggressive oak.

Key Specs & Origins

Spec Detail Brand / Producer Rowans Creek (Willett Distillery), Bardstown, Kentucky Proof / ABV 100.1 proof (~50.05% ABV) Age Statement No Age Statement (NAS), though originally in past it carried a 12-year age statement; current bottles are younger, roughly 5-7 years in many estimates. Mash Bill / Grain Bill Blended mash bills (various); corn majority, some rye and malted barley. One widely cited mash bill is 72% corn / 13% rye / 15% malted barley. Bottling Style Small batch; hand bottled; bottle label includes batch number; bottled by Willett or its Rowans Creek DBA.

Tasting Profile

Aspect Notes Nose / Aroma Caramel, vanilla, honey sweetness; mild floral/ grassy or herbal undertones; toasted marshmallow; light oak; some light fruit (apple/pear) in some batches. Palate / Taste Sweet front: caramel, brown sugar; vanilla; mild baking spice (nutmeg, cinnamon); some oak; sweetness persists; touches of raw sugarcane in certain reviews. Rye spice (pepper, mild heat) becomes more notable towards mid-palate. Finish Warming, spicy finish with lingering vanilla & caramel; oak and spice become more present; finish tends toward sweet-spice with modest bite.

What Makes It Special

• Balanced proof + flavor: The ~100 proof gives enough punch but doesnt overpower the sweeter and softer elements.

• Sweet & creamy base with spice lift: The combination of strong sweet notes (caramel, vanilla) with spice and fruit gives it layers and makes it more interesting than strictly sweet bourbons.

• Heritage & story: Named after the creek (Rowans Creek) that runs through Willett Distillery; carries a rustic, small-batch image that many bourbon drinkers appreciate.

• Versatility: Works well neat, with a little water, or in higher-end cocktails that can handle a 100-proof bourbon.

• Good sipping bourbon with personality; satisfying for fans of sweeter bourbons who still want spice.

• Proof and balance make it robust without being harsh.

• The aroma and palate both offer complexity (floral, fruit, oak, sugar) which gives interest over multiple sips.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

• Serve neat in a Glencairn to appreciate aroma. Let it rest in the glass for a few minutes.

• Try with a large ice cube or a splash of water to open up vanilla, oak, and reduce proof heat.

• In cocktails: Old Fashioned, Boulevardier substitution, or a Bourbon Sour. Use simple mixers that let the bourbons flavors shine.

• Food pairing: dark chocolate, pecan pie, roasted nuts; desserts with vanilla/caramel; mild cheeses; smoked meats also pair nicely.