Fighting Cock Bourbon Review
Welcome to another installment of our tasting series on lower shelf bourbons. Bourbon & Banter contributor, Thomas Fondano, will be trying out and commenting on bourbons priced under $20.
Today I’m reviewing “the bad boy of bourbon.” These are not my words. From the Heaven Hill website:
The bad boy of Bourbon is bottled at a robust 103 proof, but its 6 years of aging smooth out the feathers real well. Through award-winning packaging and point-of-sale, and a unique and irreverent marketing campaign, Fighting Cock appeals to both male Gen X-ers and serious Bourbon lovers alike.
The “kickin’ chicken” has been a favorite throughout the South for years.
As a male Gen-Xer, I think I’m supposed to hate being a target market. I’m also not a bloodsport enthusiast. But I suppose what’s in the bottle is more important than what’s on the label.
BOTTLE DETAILS
Proof: 103
Age: 6 years
Year: 2014
How I Drank It: Neat, in a Glencairn whiskey glass.
My Nose Noticed:* Wet Hay | Ethanol | Vanilla | Oak
First Sip: Ethanol. So much alcohol flavor that it needs water to open up.
The Burn:** Long lasting and aggressive to the point that it almost obliterates flavor. Also a bit tannic and drying.
Neat, Splash or Rocks: I never say this, but definitely rocks. Water will work too, but I like the ice to cool it down and round off the jagged fiery edges. Flavors of rye spice, honey and pecan begin to show through with dilution.
Straight, Old Fashioned or Manhattan: Either on the rocks or in an Old Fashioned where ice, bitters and sugar can take off some of the alcohol burn.
Share With: Friends. I shared it with some friends after they helped me move a 300 lb. log in my backyard and they liked it.
Worth The Price: At $18.95 I feel it’s a bit much as there are better values to be had at the same price point.
Bottle, Bar or Bust: If you want to ask a bartender for a Fighting Cock or “Cock on the rocks,” be my guest, but for the most part I’d call this a bust. Overall I feel that this bourbon is more of about marketing and novelty than being a great product.
*I like to let my bourbon sit in the glass for at least 5 minutes before I start to smell it or have a drink. I personally find that it’s better to let some of the alcohol waft off before diving in. If I’m drinking bourbon on the rocks I skip the waiting and dive in both feet first.**Some of you refer to this as the “finish” but let’s be honest. Don’t we all just want to know if it burns good?