Welcome to Day 11 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas! Today, we’re celebrating a bourbon that embodies the creativity and dedication of modern craft distilling: Rabbit Hole Bourbon.
Crafted in Louisville, Kentucky, Rabbit Hole represents what it truly means to be a craft distillery—balancing small-batch care with bold innovation. While Rabbit Hole offers a lineup of three distinct bourbons, this post focuses on their flagship Cavehill Bourbon, a four-grain gem that showcases their commitment to quality and flavor.
What Makes a Distillery “Craft”?
A craft distillery is defined by its dedication to small-batch production, hands-on techniques, and a focus on quality over quantity. Unlike large-scale operations, craft distilleries often experiment with unique mash bills, barrel finishes, or aging processes to create bold, one-of-a-kind bourbons.
Rabbit Hole checks all the boxes. From their innovative four-grain recipe to their sleek, modern distillery in Louisville, every aspect of their process reflects a love for bourbon and a desire to push its boundaries. Cavehill Bourbon is a testament to their artistry—a bourbon that’s as unique as it is delicious.
The Rabbit Hole Bourbon Lineup
Rabbit Hole’s bourbons are as striking on the outside as they are on the inside, with each expression featuring a sleek, color-coded label:
- Cavehill Bourbon (Black Label):
- The flagship four-grain bourbon made with corn, malted wheat, malted barley, and honey malted barley. Smooth, rich, and endlessly drinkable.
- Dareringer Bourbon (Red Label):
- A wheated bourbon finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. Sweet, fruity, and decadent.
- Heigold Bourbon (Blue Label):
- A high-rye bourbon with a bold, spicy profile and a smooth, slightly sweet finish.
While I’ve enjoyed all three, this post focuses on Cavehill Bourbon—the black label that started it all.
Tasting Notes for Cavehill Bourbon
Rabbit Hole Cavehill Bourbon greets you with a nose that’s as inviting as a holiday feast. The aroma is warm and complex, with notes of honey, vanilla, and toasted grain mingling with hints of dried fruit.
The first sip is silky and well-balanced. Flavors of butterscotch, caramel, and soft oak unfold, layered with a delicate nuttiness from the malted barley. The honey malted barley adds a unique sweetness, setting this bourbon apart from more traditional recipes.
The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of toffee, baking spice, and a subtle floral touch. It’s an approachable yet layered bourbon that’s perfect for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers.
Why Rabbit Hole Is Perfect for the Holidays
Cavehill Bourbon is a celebration of modern craft distilling, making it a standout bottle for the holidays. Its balanced, slightly sweet profile pairs beautifully with festive desserts like pecan pie, caramel cheesecake, or even buttery shortbread cookies.
Enjoy it neat or with a single rock to let its layers shine. It’s also a conversation starter—ideal for sharing with friends and family who might want to explore something beyond traditional bourbons.
A Holiday Toast
Rabbit Hole Cavehill Bourbon is a modern masterpiece, proving that craft distilleries can deliver quality, innovation, and accessibility in one stunning bottle. Its black label and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to your holiday bourbon lineup.
As we raise our glasses to Day 11 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas, let’s toast to creativity, craftsmanship, and the joy of exploring the ever-expanding world of bourbon. Join me tomorrow as we wrap up this festive journey with a very special bottle. Cheers to Rabbit Hole and the art of craft bourbon!