Introduction
We’re excited to dive into today's review of Cooper's Craft Barrel Reserve Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon comes from Brown-Forman, a name many whiskey enthusiasts are familiar with, as they also produce Woodford Reserve. Cooper's Craft was first introduced in 2016 as a nod to Brown-Forman's in-house cooperage, which crafts the barrels used to age their whiskey. This particular expression, the 100-proof version, promises to bring a bit more intensity to the table. So, let's see how it holds up!
This review was taken from our episode "Do the Right Thing / Coopers' Craft Flight." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Bob: There’s more fruit on the nose for me with this 100-proof version. I’m getting some pear, which is a bit more subtle and complex compared to the green apple we often find. It’s also got those classic bourbon notes—maple syrup, brown sugar, and lots of oak. I really like the nose on this one. 7/10
Brad: I’m really liking the oaky smell in this bourbon. The color on this one is also deeper, more of a molasses color, which gives it that richer feel. All the notes you mentioned, Bob, are spot on, and I’m really loving the complexity here. 7.5/10
Taste
Bob: Oh, wow, that’s good. As I was sipping, I breathed in a bit and almost got these eggnog-y notes—rich, caramelly, with some creamy, custard-like flavors, and a nice hit of baking spices. It’s hot but not harsh at all. I’m really loving this. 8.5/10
Brad: There’s a lot of depth and interest in this whiskey. It’s got that creamy custard feel, but I’m also still tasting the oakiness that I love. This is an impressive bourbon, and I’m with you on this one, Bob. 8.5/10
Finish
Bob: The finish didn’t quite do it for me. It’s pretty dry and bitter, with those woody notes coming through strongly. It’s not as enjoyable as the nose or taste. 5.5/10
Brad: Honestly, Bob, I think the finish is the best part. It’s extremely smooth, and while the oakiness does come out, I find it to be a beautiful thing. This ends so well on my palate. 9/10
Balance
Bob: The finish threw things off for me a bit, but the nose and taste were so good that I can’t take the score down too far. Overall, it’s a well-balanced whiskey. 7/10
Brad: This is an extremely well-balanced whiskey. The nose starts beautifully, and it just keeps getting better from there. 8/10
Value
Bob: At $29.99, this sits right at that $30 price point where you start to expect more from your bourbon. It’s good, but it might be a touch overpriced for what it delivers. 6.5/10
Brad: I think this is an extremely good value for what you’re getting. It’s got complexity and quality that you don’t often see at this price point. 9/10
Final Scores
Bob: My final score for Cooper's Craft 100 comes out to 34.5/50. This is a solid bourbon, but it’s just under that 40/50 mark where I’d call it great.
Brad: My final score is 42/50. I’m very impressed with this whiskey and would definitely recommend it.
Average Score: Our combined average score is 38.25/50. This is a really good whiskey, and we’d recommend picking up a bottle. It’s a solid pour, especially if you can find it at a bit of a discount.
If you’re looking for a well-balanced, flavorful bourbon that won’t break the bank, Cooper's Craft 100 is worth picking up. Given the score, we’d say it’s definitely one to buy a bottle of rather than just trying at the bar—especially if you enjoy a bourbon with rich, oaky notes and a bit of spice.
