Cedar Ridge Barrel Proof Bourbon Whiskey

Cedar Ridge Barrel Proof Bourbon is a bold, high-proof bourbon that packs in serious flavor and regional character—farm-to-glass corn intensity, warm oak spice, and Midwest climate-driven depth make it ideal for those seeking a robust sipping bourbon or elevated cocktail base.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced at Cedar Ridge Distillery in Swisher, Iowa, this expression is crafted from a mash bill of 74% corn, 14% malted rye, and 12% malted barley. The whiskey is aged in char #3 American oak barrels housed in non-climate-controlled rickhouses, exposing the barrels to dramatic Midwestern seasonal swings exceeding 100 °F, which enhances wood-spirit interaction. It’s bottled at 58% ABV (116 proof) and is non-chill filtered to retain full texture and flavor. Currently we are shipping Batch 9.

Critics Reviews

According to American Whiskey Magazine, this release earned an overall score of 9.0/10, with noted tasting remarks such as “bananas foster, dense smoke… caramel frosting and amazing depth of vanilla… oriental spice and oak.” Reviewers describe it as “artfully balanced with mature complexity that gracefully shows its power.”
Early commentary from Wine & Whiskey Globe also praised its explosive orchard-fruit aromatics and depth for the price point, calling it “surprisingly well-integrated and easy to drink… ideal daily-drinker bourbon” given its value proposition.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Aromas of fresh Iowa corn sweetness, caramel drizzle, toasted oak, warm vanilla bean, subtle orchard apples and pears, and a hint of cinnamon-nutmeg spice.
Palate: Full-bodied and bold with rich layers of brown sugar, dark chocolate, roasted corn kernels, rye-spice pepper, maple syrup and charred oak. A clean but warming mouth-feel reveals depth beyond the proof.
Finish: Long and warm with lingering oak tannin, baking-spice echoes, caramelized sugar and a dry-wood note that recedes into a gentle sweetness.

Quick Overview