For this Pure Kentucky bourbon review, let's start with this bourbon's greatest strength. This XO comes in at a whopping 107 proof (53.5 percent ABV) that's surprisingly smooth for its strength. It ends with a long, sweet finish any bourbon lover can appreciate. Basically, Kentucky Bourbon Distillers of the Willett family legacy plays to the fundamental strengths of what bourbon is supposed to be by keeping Pure Kentucky XO's palate neat and simple. In keeping with the Willett family way, there is no age statement (NAS) and the mash bill is undisclosed. In past years KBD has said that Pure Kentucky XO whiskeys were aged at least twelve years, though this statement is not found on new releases of this particular bottle. Our Rundown Of Pure Kentucky Bourbon Reviews Overall, Pure Kentucky is a great bourbon to share with friends and family over a grill or by the fireplace. It's a great all-season bourbon that mixes well and takes water for those of you who like it on the rocks from one of our whiskey glasses. The Barrel, The Palate, And The Nose You'll experience those classic cinnamon and oak barrel spices on the nose. Depending on your palate, and possibly the release of Pure Kentucky you're able to find, that nose will follow up with something sweet, in the neighborhood of maple and toffee. You may even find pepper and cinnamon here. Eventually, the palate moves on to give you a bit of clove essence along with some vanilla and the bitter side of the barrel. On the long and eventful finish, you'll feel the heat of this beautiful bourbon with its curious sweet side. This is where you'll experience the corn you're supposed to find.