Founded in 2014, West Fork Whiskey is making a name for itself in the heart of Indiana. Located in Westfield, just north of Indianapolis, the distillery is positioned about a mile away from the Grand Park Sports Complex, one of the largest indoor multi-sport complexes in the United States. This proximity to a thriving sports hub reflects the dynamic, forward-thinking nature of West Fork, which has become a key player in Indiana’s whiskey scene.

Initially, West Fork launched its whiskey line with sourced products under the Hamer brand, but today, the distillery is distilling and bottling whiskey made in its own facility. While West Fork is now proudly releasing in-house whiskey, the Hamer line remains a staple of the portfolio. As a nod to Indiana’s agricultural roots, West Fork’s flagship Hamer bourbon is crafted from a high-corn mashbill, comprising 99% corn and 1% malted barley. This mashbill, sourced from MGP in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, is referred to internally by MGP as LDSV, a legacy from when the Lawrenceburg distillery was owned by Seagram. While many consumers have not experienced this mashbill as a bourbon, it’s likely much more familiar as a well-aged light whiskey, such as Penelope American Light Whiskey Aged 17 Years.

Co-founder Blake Jones has expressed that he believes the 99/1 mashbill is particularly well-suited for secondary maturation. The high-corn mash is very impressionable, meaning it absorbs flavors from finishing casks exceptionally well. In this case, West Fork’s Hugh Hamer Straight Bourbon has been finished in rum casks from Cruzan in St. Croix. The 2023 batch (RFOCT23), a blend of two barrels, was bottled between 4 and 6 years of age.

In 2024, Drinkhacker reviewed three expressions of West Fork’s Hamer bourbons and noted that the double-oaked expression stood out for its remarkable complexity, while the unfinished versions left a bit to be desired in terms of depth. So, how does the influence of Cruzan rum casks pair with the highly impressionable high-corn mashbill? Let’s dive in and see how this unique finish shapes the character of this offering!

Hugh Hamer Rum Barrel Bourbon Review

The nose opens with a nostalgic sweetness that immediately brings to mind strawberry shortcake — ripe, juicy berries intertwining with rich cake and smooth whipped cream. The rum cask influence becomes evident with prominent brown sugar notes, giving the nose an inviting depth, while late-arriving hints of almonds add a subtle, nutty complexity.

On the palate, the rum casks assert themselves with strong, luscious notes of burnt brown sugar and creamy caramel that dominate the opening. These sweet, rich flavors are balanced by a slight smokiness, adding depth. As the whiskey moves toward the midpalate, it transitions into lighter, more subtle flavors—kettle corn’s sweet-and-salty profile paired with the buttery essence of shortbread cookies. The mouthfeel is smooth and round, with a medium viscosity that adds to the overall richness of the experience.

The finish is where the whiskey truly shines. Cinnamon and nutmeg add a pleasant spiciness, perfectly complementing the molasses sweetness that ties it all together. A final, pleasing note of Nilla Wafers develop, offering a sweetness that stays on the tongue long after the sip is gone.

Hugh Hamer finished in Cruzan rum casks is a truly enjoyable whiskey that showcases the versatility of a high-corn mashbill. The rum casks have a profound influence, elevating the sweetness of the bourbon while adding rich waves of flavor. For those who appreciate rum-finished whiskeys and are looking for something that deviates from the traditional bourbon mashbills, this expression offers a compelling and flavorful alternative. Whether you’re a rum-finish enthusiast or a bourbon lover seeking a new twist, this is a must-try.

103 proof.

B+ / $65 / westforkwhiskey.com

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