The year 2021 was an amazing year for bourbon and whisk(e)y hunting for the Bourbon Bossman Family. As mentioned in a previous blog, we found some solid bottles that made the top 5 list in 2021 and we also missed out on several as well. Unfortunately, I was unable to write reviews on these bottles before the list was released, so in no specific order, these next five reviews will focus on my favorite bottles of 2021.

Starting off this list of reviews is Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon from the Michter’s Distillery. Going into 2021, this bottle along with its sister bottle, Shenk’s Homestead Whiskey Sour Mash Kentucky, were bottles I was unfamiliar with. I had never seen these bottles on a shelf or read them on a tasting list at any of the establishments I have visited. Yet low and behold, in September I found myself staring at these two beauties, staring back at me, as I continued to stare at them.

Now, both bottles in Northern Colorado can be found for outrageous prices up to $250 and these two were also overpriced at around $189 each; so I chose only to purchase this bottle which was not a disappointment. As a side note, I would like to mention that Mrs. Bourbon Bossman is an amazing partner in crime and went back to the local store to purchase the sister bottle for me; this too has been an excellent bottle.

From their website: Bomberger’s Declaration Distillery Bourbon honors the legacy of the former distillery known as Bomberger’s in the 1800s and later as Michter’s in the 20th Century. Please join us in toasting and celebrating American Whiskey History with this outstanding small batch 108 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. The 2021 release of Bomberger’s is a robust Kentucky Straight Bourbon at 108 proof with a broad spectrum of distinctively rich characters.

Looking back at 2021, Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon was an amazingly delicious bottle that I would recommend anyone buy if they have a chance; with the caveat that it is priced at or near MSRP. I am still very pleased that a chance was taken on this bourbon and I look forward to hunting it down at the right price in 2022. Now with that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Opens with Ethanol, Leads to Dried Fruits, Green Apple, Dark Brown Sugar, and Slight Spices.
• Palate: Peppery and Baking Spices, Dark/Sweet Fruits, Brown Sugar, and Charred Oak.
• Finish: A long-lasting hug of Warm Spices, mixed with Cinnamon, and Chocolate Covered Strawberries.
• 2022 MSRP: $100
• 2022 National Average: $278
• My Rating: Save It! (But really, I am drinking it all!)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman