The bourbon world is a constantly shifting landscape, driven by trends, influencer opinions, and a relentless pursuit of the “next big thing.” Bardstown Bourbon Company is currently riding a wave of attention with their latest small-batch release, and it’s sparking a conversation – and a few mixed reviews – that perfectly encapsulates this dynamic. The brand is doubling down on the “artisanal” angle, relying on influencer attention and small-batch marketing to elevate its appeal, but is the bourbon truly delivering on the promise, or is it simply a clever marketing tactic?
Recently, Bardstown Bourbon Company sent out samples to a variety of influencers, resulting in reactions that range from enthusiastic to somewhat perplexed. You can delve into the full discussion – and witness the influencer’s reactions – here: . The resulting article offers a fascinating snapshot of the current state of opinion-driven purchasing in the spirits industry, highlighting the power of social media and the increasing influence of “taste tests” in driving consumer desire.
The Players & The Pour:
Bardstown Bourbon Company, based in Bardstown, Kentucky – a city steeped in bourbon history – is clearly prioritizing a smaller batch, barrel-aged process, which currently aligns with popular trends. The brand’s positioning centers around a perceived exclusivity and meticulous approach, aiming to tap into the growing consumer desire for products that feel special and limited. The reviewer at Yahoo Lifestyle highlights prominent vanilla notes – a detail likely emphasized in the product description – alongside other subtle hints of caramel and oak. This focus on readily identifiable flavor profiles, particularly vanilla, is a common strategy employed in bourbon marketing, reflecting the desire for approachable and familiar tastes.
The brand’s focus on “small-batch” production, while appealing to consumers seeking exclusivity and a sense of owning something unique, essentially boils down to limiting the overall volume of production. This strategy, while creating demand, also raises questions about scalability and long-term availability. It’s a common tactic used by smaller distilleries to build a following and cultivate a premium image, but it also introduces the potential for scarcity, driving up prices and fueling collector’s interest – often beyond the typical bourbon drinker’s budget.
The current release appears to be a wheated bourbon, a popular choice for its smooth and approachable character. The distillation process appears to be traditional, though specific details are intentionally vague, contributing to the “artisanal” branding. The tasting notes suggest a relatively young bourbon – likely no more than a few years old – meaning the flavors are still developing and not entirely refined.
Why You Should Care:
This release serves as a prime example of how trends begin in the bourbon world. When influencers and media outlets collectively proclaim a product to be “amazing,” demand – and subsequently availability – rapidly increase. This phenomenon, often fueled by carefully curated content and social media buzz, can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. The Yahoo Lifestyle article’s reporting of diverse reactions – some praising the bourbon’s complexity, others finding it unremarkable – reflects this dynamic. It’s a critical reminder that taste is ultimately subjective, and that a well-made, straightforward bourbon can often satisfy just as effectively, even if it doesn’t receive the same level of hype.
Furthermore, it underscores the increasingly prevalent role of influencer marketing in shaping consumer perceptions, demanding a healthy dose of skepticism. The reliance on social media personalities to generate excitement can create a distorted view of a product’s true qualities, leading consumers to make purchasing decisions based on perceived popularity rather than genuine taste.
Last Call:
Don’t fall prey to the hype. Instead of chasing trends and seeking validation from online influencers, explore your own preferences and select a bourbon that genuinely appeals to your palate. Consider factors like proof, grain bill, and aging process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles. A simple, well-crafted bottle – even one that hasn’t been splashed across Instagram – is often more satisfying than a product propelled by manufactured excitement. Ultimately, the best bourbon is the one you enjoy, regardless of what anyone else says. Don’t let the buzz dictate your choices; let your taste buds be your guide.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/taste-test-bardstown-bourbon-company-180000932.html
