In all honesty, this was my first time receiving free samples from a distillery; and they were two full bottles! I did not start this journey to earn money or become “known,” I started this as a creative outlet and as a way to separate from a very stressful day-to-day career. I have always loved writing, publishing reviews, be it historical book reviews, and enjoying bourbon; so why not put all three of them together! Even if this is the only time I receive samples at no cost, it is amazing that I at least received these and I am honored.

Having never seen either of these bottles in Northern Colorado, I took a bit of time to research where someone could purchase these bottles if interested; unfortunately, it looks like only in the State of Louisiana at this time or on a few limited online platforms. So with that, today I am reviewing Louisiana Tradition Bourbon and Louisiana Tradition Copper Tear Bourbon.

From the Louisiana Tradition website: It all started generations ago at a family farm in a hollow near an old oak tree. Moonshiners and bootleggers were prevalent throughout the region, the illegal trading spread far and wide, much further than the South. For some, moonshining was a family tradition they were born into like myself… Years passed and next thing you know I own a distillery following my family footsteps. It is my obligation to keep the same family traditions and quality of liquors going forward for generations to come. (Legally)

Overall, neither of these bourbons were disappointing, yet one was superior to the other. I would recommend that whether you are new to bourbon or a seasoned taster, you should try both these bourbons at least once. However, if given the chance to purchase a bottle of the Copper Tear Bourbon while in Louisiana, I would say do not pass on it! If you love a sweet, delicate, and smooth bourbon, this is a bottle for you. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Louisiana Tradition Bourbon (Batch No. 3/Bottle No. 1644)
  • Nose: Childhood Memories of Mott’s Apple Juice and White Grapes with Hints of Vanilla, Brown Sugar, and Oak
  • Palate: Strong Notes of Vanilla, Fresh Apples, Baking Spices and Oak
  • Finish: Short to Medium with Very Minimal Notes, Ending in Dry Oak and Baking Spices
  • 2022 MSRP: $39
  • My Rating: Mix It/Drink It! (This bourbon is dead in the middle of an excellent mixer and delightful daily sipper)

• Copper Tear Bourbon (Batch No. 1/Bottle No. 1215)
  • Nose: Strong Notes of Mott’s Apple Juice, Vanilla, Brown Sugar, and Buttercream Frosting
  • Palate: Sweetness Galore, With Notes of Vanilla, Brown Sugar, Apples, Buttercream Frosting, and Oak
  • Finish: I know the word “smooth” is a fopaux when tasting bourbon, but dang this is smooth! Medium Finish, Smooth as can be, with Finishing Notes of Dry Oak, Baking Spice, and Buttercream Frosting
  • 2022 MSRP: $59
  • My Rating: Save It! (I am a sucker for sweetness and this bourbon did not disappoint. I would definitely buy another bottle if this!)

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

The bottles used for this review were generously provided by Louisiana Tradition at no cost. Bourbon Bossman graciously thanks them for the ability to try new bourbon and whiskey without strings attached, and I greatly appreciate this opportunity to provide an honest review of their products.