15 Stars First West Explorer

About the product: A landmark release in the First West Collection, 15 STARS First West Explorer is the brand's first bourbon crafted entirely from 100% in-house distilled whiskey. Showcasing 15 STARS' proprietary baby black corn mashbill, this innovative expression delivers a uniquely rich and complex character that sets it apart from traditional bourbons.

This distinctive five-grain bourbon combines baby black corn, yellow corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley to create exceptional depth and balance. A blend of Kentucky Straight Bourbons aged five and six years, it is carefully matured and refined using the brand's signature Flavor Proofed™ process, resulting in a bourbon that is remarkably smooth, balanced, and layered with complexity.

Continuing the brand's tribute to Kentucky and the American frontier—the birthplace of bourbon—First West Explorer is presented in a historic-inspired blue glass bottle, honoring the first glass bottles produced in Kentucky and once used to house the state's earliest bourbons.

First West Explorer is a celebration of Kentucky heritage and bourbon innovation, offering an exceptional expression that combines tradition, craftsmanship, and a pioneering spirit in every pour.

Tasting Notes: 

Nose: Bold aromas of cherry, banana pudding, vanilla wafers, and meringue are complemented by notes of fresh wood and tobacco.

Palate: A rich, velvety mouthfeel carries flavors of pear, raisin, and sugar, balanced by baking spice, herbal tea, cigar box, and seasoned oak.

Finish: Bright orange citrus and white pepper linger on the palate, while fresh oak gradually evolves into the character of well-aged wood, creating a long, refined finish.