Review: Lux Row Albarino Cask Bourbon

By Jacob Kiper | April 14, 2025 |

In the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky, where the air hums with the legacy of American whiskey, Lux Row Distillers has been quietly shaping some of the most innovative spirits in the bourbon scene. The release of the Lux Row Small Batch Albariño Cask Finish takes their artistry to a thrilling new frontier—one that’s as unexpected as it is exhilarating. This isn’t just bourbon; it’s a journey from the bourbon heartland of Kentucky to the coastal windswept shores of Spain and Portugal.

The Albariño Cask Finish is a daring exploration of the unlikely marriage between bourbon and a white wine that has long been the soul of Galicia’s Rías Baixas. The grape Albariño, known for its crisp, refreshing characteristics and bright acidity, is here re-imagined as a vessel for enriching bourbon. It’s a bold, visionary move by Master Distiller John Rempe, and it promises to shake up expectations.

This Small Batch release isn’t just about a wine cask finish for novelty’s sake—it’s a meticulous blend of two bourbon mashbills, each with its own distinct profile. The first features 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley, resulting in a robust, traditional bourbon backbone. The second, with 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley, adds a softer, sweeter character that complements the Albariño influence perfectly.

After their initial maturation, these two mashbills are brought together for a unique finishing period in Albariño casks, where they soak up the subtle nuances of the Spanish coastal terroir. Six months in these casks imparts a gentle but distinctive character—fresh, fruity notes that flirt with the bourbon’s natural warmth.

Wine cask finishes have become a staple in the American whiskey scene, but Lux Row takes things a step further by introducing a less traditional wine influence. Their Albariño cask finish offers whiskey lovers the chance to experience the unique, yet often underappreciated, qualities of this coastal Spanish wine. Priced at $60, this distillery exclusive raises the question: Does it justify a pilgrimage to Bardstown? Let’s dive in and see if it’s worth the journey!

Lux Row Albarino Cask Bourbon Review

The bouquet opens gently with a delicate sweetness, offering honey and peach skin aromas. As the glass rests, hints of mint appear, along with a faint touch of grapefruit zest. The overall aroma is well-balanced, with no one note rising above the others, creating a pleasant yet nuanced experience. While the nose is intriguing and packed with character, it lacks a certain vibrancy that might have elevated it further.

The palate is where this whiskey truly shines. The initial taste leads with ripe apricots and a green tea flavor. As the tasting experience unfolds, flavors of Lemonheads candy and honey join the mix, enhancing the overall complexity. The mouthfeel is rich and slightly musky, giving it a thicker quality that lingers in a comforting way.

The finish is equally engaging, offering refreshing notes of cucumber and honey. As the whiskey fades, a slightly bitter grape skin note lingers alongside a touch of saltwater, creating an intriguing, unexpected aftertaste.

This wine cask finish is unlike anything I’ve encountered before, offering a unique experience that I found myself wanting to revisit. At $60, it’s a worthy investment, and definitely makes a trip to Bardstown worthwhile for those seeking a distinctive and memorable dram.

105 proof.

A- / $60 / luxrowdistillers.com