Hudson Four Grain Bourbon from Tuthilltown Spirits represents a piece of New York whiskey history – the first pot still whiskey produced in the state since Prohibition. This 92-proof four grain bourbon features a mashbill of corn, rye, wheat, and barley, aged less than four years. While historically significant, this seemingly discontinued (possibly replaced with a 7 year variant) expression seems to have been phased out of Tuthilltown’s current lineup, possibly for good reason.
Quick Take
| Profile: Earthy molasses and dark syrup with astringent acetone notes |
| Proof Management: 92 proof feels well-controlled despite rough edges |
| Standout Feature: Rich chocolate and coffee notes on the palate |
| Best For: Cocktail base needing grounded, earthy flavors |
| Watch Out: Astringent nose and rough distillation character throughout |
A Cantina Encounter with History
Sometimes you discover whiskeys in unexpected places. This Hudson Four Grain Bourbon crossed my path at Local Cantina in Dublin, Ohio’s Bridge Park development – not exactly the ideal tasting environment after chips, salsa, and three fried fish tacos. But hey, that’s real-world whiskey drinking for you. The bottle was from batch 1, distilled in 2018, representing some of Tuthilltown’s early work in reviving New York whiskey production.
New York Whiskey Pioneer
Hudson Four Grain Bourbon holds historical significance as the first pot still whiskey produced in New York since Prohibition ended. Made at the Tuthilltown Grist Mill, a location on the National Historic Registry, this whiskey represents the early days of the craft distilling revival. The four grain mashbill reportedly consists of 60% corn, 15% rye, 15% wheat, and 10% barley, though Tuthilltown hasn’t officially confirmed these percentages. Notably, this expression no longer appears on the distillery’s current offerings, suggesting it may have been discontinued as they refined their processes or allowed the whiskey to age longer.
Appearance and Color
The whiskey pours a standard amber color typical of younger American whiskeys. Nothing particularly striking here – it looks like what you’d expect from a sub-four-year bourbon.
Nose
The nose immediately presents challenges with astringent, acetone-like notes that suggest some rough distillation edges. Sweet corn syrup provides the backbone, while light rye spices add complexity. These acetone notes are often a sign of heads and tails not being cut cleanly during distillation – something that can improve with experience and refined techniques.
Palate
Despite the challenging nose, the palate offers more promise. Rich chocolate and coffee notes emerge alongside molasses and dark corn syrup flavors that give this whiskey real depth. Apple cobbler adds a pleasant fruity sweetness, while oak provides structure and light rye spice keeps things interesting. The earthy molasses character dominates, creating a grounded, almost rustic drinking experience.
Finish
The finish runs medium to long, with oak and molasses taking center stage. That earthy character persists, along with some of those rougher distillation notes that appeared on the nose. It’s not unpleasant, but it reinforces the sense that this whiskey has some technical limitations.
Who Should Buy This
Given its possibly discontinued status, you’re more likely to find this as a dusty bottle or at a bar than on retail shelves. If you do encounter it, this bourbon works best as a cocktail base where its earthy, grounded character can anchor drinks that need that molasses-heavy foundation. It’s not a daily sipper for most palates, but whiskey history buffs might appreciate trying an early example of New York’s craft distilling revival. Those who enjoy rustic, unpolished whiskeys might find charm in its rough-around-the-edges character.
Where to Buy
Hudson Four Grain Bourbon appears to be discontinued and is no longer available through Tuthilltown Spirits’ website and likley not via regular retail channels. You might occasionally find bottles at bars with deep whiskey selections (like Local Cantina) or as dusty bottles at specialty shops. Since it appears it is no longer in production, expect to pay secondary market prices if you do locate a bottle, though given its mixed reception, it’s likely not commanding premium prices. Check local whiskey bars or specialty retailers for any remaining inventory.
FAQ
What is a four grain bourbon?
A four grain bourbon uses four different grains in its mashbill instead of the typical three. While most bourbons use corn, wheat or rye, and barley, Hudson’s four grain approach includes corn, rye, wheat, AND barley, creating a more complex grain character.
Is Hudson Four Grain Bourbon still available?
No, Hudson Four Grain Bourbon appears to be discontinued and is no longer listed among Tuthilltown Spirits’ current offerings. It was an early expression from the distillery that appears to have been phased out.
What does pot still whiskey mean?
Pot still whiskey is made using traditional copper pot stills rather than column stills. This method typically produces whiskey with more character and flavor complexity, though it can also result in rougher edges if not expertly managed.
How should I drink high-proof bourbon?
At 92 proof, Hudson Four Grain isn’t extremely high proof, but you can drink it neat, on the rocks, or with a few drops of water to open up the flavors. Given its rough edges, it might be better suited for cocktails than neat sipping.
What foods pair well with earthy bourbon?
Earthy bourbons like Hudson Four Grain pair well with rich, savory foods like barbecue, dark chocolate, coffee-based desserts, or hearty stews that complement the molasses and oak flavors.
Final Verdict
Hudson Four Grain Bourbon earns credit for historical significance as New York’s first post-Prohibition pot still whiskey, but the execution falls short of modern craft standards. Those astringent notes and rough distillation character overshadow the genuinely pleasant chocolate, coffee, and molasses flavors on the palate. While it’s not terrible whiskey, (Scotch lovers might really like this one) it’s easy to understand why Tuthilltown may have discontinued this expression in favor of more refined bourbon offerings. Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars – a historically interesting but technically flawed early effort that’s better suited for cocktails than contemplative sipping.