Frank August Case Study 04 Double Oaked Whiskey 750ml

APPROACH: CASE STUDY: CASE STUDY: 04 | 4X OAKED | PROOFED IN BARREL I DOUBLE OAKED | KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON & RYE WHISKEY, is the 4th release of Frank August's multi-award-winning 'CASE STUDY' series. This program exemplifies Frank August's commitment to evolving and elevating the character of American whiskey and serves as a creative platform for experimenting and introducing new, high- quality expressions. CASE STUDY: 04 represents this pursuit at its highest level.

CASE STUDY: 04 is a blend of double oaked KSBW and double oaked KSRW. Each 4-barrel batch is blended with 2x double oaked KSBW barrels and 2x double oaked KSRW barrels, inspiring the designation '4X Oaked'.

STORY: What makes this release so distinctive is the "PROOFED IN BARREL" process the brand has introduced with this expression. Instead of proofing in tanks prior to bottling, at the time of the 2nd barrel fill, Frank August "PROOFED IN BARREL," so at the point of maturation, each barrel would be 95 proof. Each secondary barrel was then aged an additional 12-14 months before being dumped and batched. 

The result is a beautiful, full, and complex whiskey. This considered process underscores Frank August's dedication to crafting distinctive and innovative "one-of-one" expressions of American whiskey.

APPEARANCE: TA rich walnut tone with generous, viscous legs that decorate the glass. The depth of color reflects the multi double oaked, '4X Oaked', barrel finish.

NOSE: An intricate bouquet opens with sweet vanilla and baking spices, quickly deepened by the sharpness of rye and an alluring touch of warm oak. Hints of brown sugar, dried fruits, and a whisper of leather emerge as the aromas evolve, adding richness and depth to the already well-balanced nose.

PALATE: The first sip envelops the palate in a velvety sweetness, with caramelized sugars and baked apple bursting at the front. This warmth is quickly met by vibrant rye spices, while subtle notes of toasted almonds, buttery toffee, and clove surface. The mid-palate introduces a refreshing layer of mint and mild pepper, enhancing the complexity, before all the flavors harmonize into a balanced, full-bodied experience.

FINISH: At 95 proof, the finish is unexpectedly long and evolving. Notes of mint chocolate and gentle cinnamon linger, as faint traces of dark roasted coffee and spiced oak quietly build. With each sip, the finish becomes more nuanced, inviting another pour to explore the harmony of flavors that continue to develop over time.