Straight Edge Bourbon Whiskey
Straight Edge Bourbon Whiskey is where Napa Valley wine meets Kentucky and Tennessee bourbon — an 84-proof (42% ABV) blend of 5-, 7-, and 8-year-old bourbons, finished 4–5 months in French oak barrels that previously held Orin Swift's Mercury Head 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Made by Splinter Group, founded by Orin Swift's Dave Phinney, it bridges wine and whiskey in one bottle. This 750mL is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 42% (84 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Blend: 5-, 7-, and 8-year-old bourbons from Kentucky and Tennessee
- Finish: 4–5 months in French oak Orin Swift Cabernet Sauvignon barrels
- Mash bill: ~70% corn, balance rye and wheat (wineloft/VA ABC brand copy; one retailer claims 70/17/13 — flagged)
A Winemaker's Bourbon
Dave Phinney built Orin Swift into one of Napa's most recognizable wine brands, then turned to spirits with Splinter Group. Straight Edge applies a winemaker's instincts to whiskey: start with mature bourbon stock (nothing under 5 years), then finish it in high-end Napa Cabernet barrels for 4–5 months — long enough to layer toasty vanilla and dried-fruit notes without turning it into wine. Virginia ABC's brand-supplied copy calls it "velvety smooth" with honey and intense caramel.
Tasting Notes
The nose shows brown sugar, maple, caramelized oak, exotic spices, orange peel, and campfire. The palate is rich with honey and intense caramel; the finish is persistent, long lasting, and focused.
How to Enjoy
Neat, to catch the Cabernet-barrel influence — it drinks like a bourbon for red-wine lovers. Wine-curious whiskey drinkers will find it a bridge bottle; explore more bourbon or see the rest of Straight Edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Straight Edge Bourbon? Splinter Group, the spirits arm of Orin Swift founder Dave Phinney in Napa Valley.
What barrels is it finished in? French oak barrels from Orin Swift that previously held Mercury Head 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, for 4–5 months.
What is the proof? 84 proof (42% ABV), 750mL.
How old are the component bourbons? A blend of 5-, 7-, and 8-year-old bourbons from Kentucky and Tennessee.
Wine barrels, bourbon soul — order Straight Edge Bourbon Whiskey online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.