Cutwater Spirits Black Skimmer Bourbon Whiskey
Cutwater Spirits Black Skimmer Bourbon Whiskey (750mL, 90 proof / 45% ABV) is the San Diego distillery's bourbon statement: a no-age-statement blend of straight bourbon whiskeys — part Cutwater's own production, part sourced from partner distilleries — "meticulously selected, curated and blended" for a smooth, versatile profile. Honey, caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak lead, with warm spice and a long peppery finish. Order it online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 45% (90 proof) — 750mL
- Blend: a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys (mash bills and ages undisclosed)
- Character: honey, caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, warm spice; long peppery finish
- Origin: Cutwater Spirits, San Diego, California (spun out of Ballast Point Brewing)
- Use: sips neat or on the rocks; built for Old Fashioneds and whiskey sours
The San Diego Distillery's Bourbon
Cutwater made its name on vodka, gin, canned cocktails, and rum before turning to whiskey — Black Skimmer was its flagship bourbon launch, a deliberately approachable 90-proofer designed to drink as well in cocktails as neat. Reviewers found a young, lively blend: lumberyard-and-tobacco notes up front, cloves and baking spice mid-palate, resolving into honey, vanilla, and candied-fruit sweetness — a bourbon that rewards a second look. Explore Cutwater Spirits or the bourbon shelf.
Tasting Notes
Honey and vanilla on the nose with toasted oak and candied fruit; a caramel-and-char palate with warm spice and pepper; a long, peppery finish with lingering candied fruit and soft brown sugar.
How to Enjoy
Pour neat or over one large cube to let the honey and oak open up — or put it to work in an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour, where the 90-proof body and spice hold up to citrus and bitters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What proof is Black Skimmer Bourbon?
90 proof (45% ABV) — the consensus across the brand, reviewers, and most retailers (one retailer lists 80 proof).
Is Black Skimmer a straight bourbon?
It is a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys with no age statement — Cutwater's own production plus sourced bourbon from partner distilleries.
Who makes Black Skimmer Bourbon?
Cutwater Spirits of San Diego, California — the spirits distillery spun out of Ballast Point Brewing.
The San Diego bourbon that punches above its proof — order Cutwater Black Skimmer Bourbon Whiskey online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.