Castle and Key Small Batch 6 Year Review

Welcome back to DadDimes On the Rocks! Today we’re reviewing the Castle & Key Small Batch 6 Year Bourbonfrom the historic Castle & Key Distillery (formerly the Old Taylor Distillery) in Kentucky. Let’s dive in and see whether this milestone release lives up to the hype.

• The distillery resurrected the Old Taylor site and now releases its own bourbon after years of contract distilling.

• This “6 Year” expression marks a step up in age compared to earlier releases (many previous batches were ~4 years).

• Mash bill: 73% white corn, 10% rye, and 17% malted barley. 

• Proof: Varies by batch; earlier batches were 98 proof for 4-year versions. For the 6-year release the proof is in the ~98–100 proof range. (Listings show this bottle at ~$45–55 MSRP).

• Availability: Premium craft release; expect moderate availability and price premiums.

Nose:

• Vanilla and caramel come through early, with a light fruit-note background: peaches, maybe honeydew or fresh apple. 

• There are touches of white-pepper/rye spice, and some grain/corn sweetness (reflecting the high corn + malted barley mash).

• The oak influence is present but restrained—not heavy char, more subtle oak than deep barrel power.

Palate:

• The mouthfeel is light-to-medium body. Flavors lean sweet: caramel, vanilla, maybe light toffee. Some orchard fruit or citrus rind glimpsed.

• The rye (10%) shows up as mild spice, pepper or ginger-like tingling, rather than dominant.

• Oak and char are manageable—not overpowering, which may appeal to those who prefer smooth over heavy wood.

Finish:

• Medium length. The spice carries a little into the tail, with some dryness from oak tannin and a vanishing hint of grain sweetness.

• Some reviewers signal the finish lacks the depth or broad layering of older bourbons—but it's polished. 

Strengths:

• Solid craft bourbon from a distillery with heritage and quality aspirations.

• Nicely balanced for what it is: sweet, approachable, with enough character to hold its own.

• The age bump to six years is meaningful—it gives the whiskey more maturity than very young craft releases.

Caveats:

• Some reviewers feel it still shows its youth: Not the oak/char punch of much older bourbons; less complexity than super-premium releases. 

• Price relative to experience: If marked high, you may compare it to fellow bourbons of longer age or higher proof and ask: “Is this as impressive as those?”

• Variation between batches: As with many craft/batch releases, consistency and individual barrel/blend variation may affect experience.

• Bourbon drinkers who appreciate craft distilleries and want to support newer-heritage releases.

• Those who like a bourbon that’s smooth and balanced, not full-blast wood/char.

• Folks exploring Kentucky bourbons outside the biggest names—interested in discovering something with story and character.

Rating: ⭐ 3.75 / 5
This is a very good bourbon that accomplishes its goals and delivers enjoyment. It may not reach the peaks of older, barrel-proof giants, but for its age, price, and craft status it offers strong value.

The Castle & Key Small Batch 6 Year Bourbon is a thoughtful, well-made bourbon with character, approachability, and an interesting back-story. If you spot a bottle at a fair price (~$45–55) and you enjoy bourbon that leans smoother rather than ultra-bold, it’s worth grabbing. Let it sit in your glass a moment, appreciate the vanilla/caramel/honey notes, and enjoy the craftsmanship behind it.

That’s our review for today on DadDimes On the Rocks. Until next time—slow your sip, know your bottle, and keep your bar interesting. Cheers! 🥃