Review: Bluebird Distilling Single Malt and Double Barrel Bourbon

Bluebird Distilling, founded by Jared Adkins in the town of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania—just northwest of Philadelphia—continues the state’s deep-rooted whiskey-making tradition. Committed to quality and authenticity, Bluebird distills its spirits using 100% American-grown grain. The distillation process begins with milling the grain to a flour, which is then steeped in water heated to 150°F for 90 minutes. Afterward, the mash is cooled to 80°F and moved to open-top fermentation tanks, where it ferments for 5 to 7 days. Once fermentation is complete, the mash is distilled in a custom hybrid copper pot still imported from Germany.

Drinkhacker, already familiar with Bluebird’s craftsmanship, recently received samples of two of the distillery’s other expressions: Bluebird Double Barrel Bourbon and Bluebird American Single Malt Whiskey, both submitted for review.

Bluebird Distilling Double Barrel Bourbon Review

Bluebird’s Double Barrel Bourbon begins with a four-grain mashbill consisting of 60% corn, 20% rye, 10% wheat, and 10% malted barley. The bourbon spends five years aging in new charred oak before being transferred to a second cask for additional maturation. The finishing barrel is made by a different cooperage, using a heavy toast and a light char.

On the nose, initial impressions include black licorice and cream soda. As it sits, additional aromas of leather and Cheerwine begin to show. The aromatic profile sets the stage well for the tasting experience. The palate starts with toasted meringue and cinnamon-sugar pita chips. As it develops, notes of coffee and tobacco add a darker, richer dimension. The finish brings out flavors of southern pralines, ending on a note of buttercream frosting with a touch of nutmeg.

Overall, Bluebird Double Barrel Bourbon is a respectable expression from a small distillery. While the $80 price point feels a little steep, the whiskey avoids harsh edges and maintains a good balance throughout. The secondary aging adds depth without allowing the oak to take over, making this a thoughtful, well-executed release. 100 proof. B+ / $80

Bluebird Distilling American Single Malt Review

American single malt whiskey regulations allow for aging in either new or used oak casks. For this release, Bluebird Distilling opted for new charred American oak barrels, using staves that were open-air seasoned for 18 months. While the exact aging period is undisclosed, it’s noted to be under four years. The mash bill consists entirely of malted barley—a blend of pale and caramelized malts.

The nose begins with the grain-forward aroma of Honey Nut Cheerios, soon joined by notes of Heath candy bars. As the whiskey continues to open, a denser layer of buttercream frosting adds weight to the aromatic profile. On the palate, initial impressions include coffee and prunes, followed by a continuation of the Honey Nut Cheerios character from the nose. The texture is notably viscous, offering a weighty mouthfeel that complements the flavor progression. The finish delivers flavors of crème brûlée, quickly giving way to hazelnut coffee and burnt brown sugar.

Overall, Bluebird’s American Single Malt is a respectable entry in a growing category. Priced at $65, it presents fair value for a younger whiskey. While it already shows thoughtful composition, additional time in the barrel could bring greater cohesion and complexity in future releases. 100 proof. B / $65

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