Review: Starlight Carl T. Huber’s Mizunara Reserve Bourbon
Founded in 2001 in the quiet countryside of Starlight, Indiana—just 15 miles northwest of Louisville—Starlight Distillery is a standout on the American whiskey landscape. Though the lights of Louisville aren’t far, the Huber family’s farm and distillery are tucked into a rural expanse where tradition, craft, and innovation thrive across hundreds of acres.
Originally established for brandy production, Starlight has evolved into one of the most exciting names in American whiskey. Known for its bold experimentation and mastery of finishing casks, the distillery has gained widespread acclaim not just for its straight bourbon and rye, but especially for its dynamic single-barrel releases. Over the years, fans have eagerly awaited older expressions—and now, Starlight is answering that call.
Enter Starlight Carl T. Huber’s Mizunara Reserve Bourbon, a batched release that pays homage to the distillery’s signature style while pushing boundaries. Aged for 7.5 years, this bourbon blends tradition with rarity—finishing in Mizunara oak casks sourced from Hokkaido, Japan.
Mizunara Reserve Batch #B2404 is a thoughtfully composed blend of Starlight’s 3-grain and 4-grain bourbon mashbills, with a stronger presence from the 3-grain recipe (60% corn, 20% rye, 20% malted barley). The 4-grain mashbill includes 51% corn, 20% rye, 20% malted barley, and 9% wheat. All grains—corn, rye, and wheat—are estate-grown and non-GMO, while the malted barley is locally sourced.
Fermentation lasted three days in closed-top stainless steel tanks before double distillation in a custom-built Vendome copper and brass pot still. The spirit was collected at around 155 proof and barreled at 120 proof into new American oak from a mix of cooperages, primarily Spirit of Canton. These barrels featured #2 and #3 char levels with toasted heads.
For the finishing touch, the whiskey was transferred to Mizunara oak casks, renowned for their rare, aromatic influence. These barrels—crafted from 200-year-old trees—are notoriously difficult to work with due to the wood’s knotty nature and curvature. Each Mizunara barrel, costing around $6,000, was hand-grooved and constructed with an unusually high number of narrow staves—far more than the typical 31–33 used in standard bourbon barrels. The bourbon then rested in these precious casks for an additional 6 months, marrying its rich American character with exotic notes imparted by Japanese oak.
Securing the elusive Mizunara oak casks was no small feat—it took Starlight over two years to source and import these rare barrels from Japan. Coupled with the extended aging that whiskey enthusiasts have been clamoring for, Batch #B2404 represents a serious investment in both time and craftsmanship. So, after years of patience and anticipation, does the Mizunara Reserve Bourbon live up to the hype? Let’s dive in and find out.
Starlight Carl T. Huber’s Mizunara Reserve Bourbon Review
The bouquet opens with an arresting mix of chargrilled peaches and warm caramel sauce. Given a moment to breathe, the bourbon releases aromas of macadamia nuts and a hint of saffron that lingers just above the rim of the Glencairn. The nose is bold, alluring, and marked with intrigue. There’s a noticeable spice presence, yet it’s kept in check by an impressive sense of harmony.
On the palate, roasted macadamia takes the lead, setting a decadent tone. This is quickly followed by notes of butterscotch and dulce de leche, creating a confectionery richness without ever feeling cloying. Midway through, the peach reappears, this time lending a luxurious texture that enhances the overall depth.
The finish offers a striking shift: sassafras takes the forefront, evolving into dried apricot with a well-tuned progression. Long after the final sip, cardamom and saffron continue to linger, leaving a deeply memorable impression that refuses to fade.
This is a standout example of what thoughtful cask finishing can achieve in bourbon. At 112 proof, the balance is impeccable—offering clarity and depth without overwhelming heat. While Starlight has built its name on single barrel bottlings, this batched release is nothing short of exceptional.
The $150 price tag may give some pause, especially for a bourbon aged just over seven years. But when considering the estate-driven, grain-to-glass approach—and the inclusion of prized finishing casks—the price point becomes far more justifiable. Judging by what’s in my glass, it’s worth every penny.
112 proof. Reviewed: Batch #B2404.
A / $150 / starlightdistillery.com
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