Charles Goodnight Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey 115 Proof

Bold, rich, and boldly Texan, Charles Goodnight Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey (115 Proof) commands attention with its full-flavored profile and generous structure. Known for its combination of deep caramel sweetness, warm spice, and robust corn character, this bourbon delivers both power and refinement — a whiskey that’s equally at home neat, on the rocks, or as the centerpiece of elevated cocktails.

What sets this expression apart in the world of American whiskey is not just its confident proof and balanced profile, but its international acclaim: it was honored as Best Whiskey at the London Spirits Competition, a respected global tasting that celebrates excellence across categories. That accolade underscores both the craftsmanship and broad appeal of this Texas-born bourbon.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Hailing from the heart of Texas, USA, Charles Goodnight Bourbon celebrates the legacy of the legendary 19th-century frontiersman and cattleman whose name it bears. Created with an eye toward classic American bourbon heritage, this expression uses a traditional mash bill dominated by corn, with smaller proportions of rye and malted barley to build layered complexity.

Distilled in the United States and aged in new charred American oak barrels, this bourbon matures in Texas’s unique climate — hot summers and cool winters — which accelerates wood interaction and flavor development. The 115 proof bottling preserves the robust intensity of the spirit straight from barrel strength without unnecessary dilution, giving drinkers a richly concentrated experience with vibrant aromatics and depth.

Critics Reviews & Accolades

Among professionals and spirits judges, Charles Goodnight 115 Proof has earned strong praise for its balanced integration of flavor, structure, and finish, most notably:

• Best Whiskey — London Spirits Competition
  This international award highlights the bourbon’s global appeal and craftsmanship, distinguishing it among entrants from around the world for its aromatic depth, palate complexity, and overall balance.

Across industry commentary, reviewers emphasize the bourbon’s harmonious marriage of sweet, spicy, and oaky elements, noting that despite its high proof, the whiskey remains approachable and profoundly satisfying.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Generous and inviting, with notes of vanilla custard, caramelized brown sugar, and toasted oak. Subtle hints of baking spice, honeyed peach, and a touch of charcoal smoke add aromatic intrigue.

Palate:
Full-bodied and richly textured. Deep caramel and butterscotch lead the way, balanced by dark honey, baked fruit, and roasted pecan. Rye-driven spice — cinnamon and clove — emerges with warmth, while oak tannins contribute backbone and structure.

Finish:
Long and warming, with oak spice, sweet molasses, and gentle peppery heat. The finish lingers with a pleasant interplay of sweetness and wood-driven complexity that evolves sip after sip.

Serving & Cocktail Ideas

Neat / On the Rocks:
Best enjoyed slowly to appreciate the full bouquet and warming oak expression.

Texan Old Fashioned:

• 2 oz Charles Goodnight (115 Proof)

• ½ oz demerara syrup

• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
  Stir with ice; strain over a large ice cube; garnish with orange zest.

Smoky Boulevardier:

• 1.5 oz Charles Goodnight

• 1 oz sweet vermouth

• 1 oz Campari
  Stir with ice; strain into a chilled coupe; garnish with an expressed orange peel.

Quick Overview