Big Horn Bourbon Review – Montana Whiskey with a Gentle Touch

Jun 4

Intro:

This Pour Decisions Wednesday takes us to the big sky country of Montana, where we explore Big Horn Bourbon from Willie’s Distillery in Ennis. This small-town whiskey offers a light, easy-drinking experience—perfect for bourbon beginners, trail-flask sippers, or anyone looking for a regional pour that’s as chill as the Madison River.

Distillery Backstory:

Willie’s Distillery was founded in 2010 by a veteran and his wife with a vision for local, grain-to-glass Montana spirits. Based in Ennis (population: barely 1,000), they use regional grains and pure mountain water from the Madison Range to craft their lineup. Big Horn Bourbon is their accessible, entry-level release—a blend of in-house and sourced bourbon bottled at 80 proof.

What We Tasted:

This bourbon isn’t here to knock your socks off. It’s here to offer a handshake and maybe a warm nod of approval.

Nose: Sweet corn, honey, vanilla, light caramel, a touch of apple
Palate: Grain-forward and mild, with a smooth, soft mouthfeel
Finish: Short, clean, and unobtrusive—nothing complex, but nothing offensive either

What We Thought:

Heather says it smells like a whiskey candle from a national park. B calls it “more prairie dog than dragon.” It’s the kind of pour you’d offer a new whiskey drinker, or enjoy around a campfire without worrying about proof strength or palate fatigue.

Should You Buy It?

If you’re in Montana—or need a gift that feels like Montana—this bottle makes sense. It’s not a collector’s item or a flavor bomb. But it’s a good entry-level bourbon that proudly reps its small-town roots.

Final Thoughts:

Big Horn won’t blow your mind, but it might just grow on you—especially if you’re drinking it surrounded by bison, stars, and the sound of your own questionable life choices echoing off the mountains.

🎬 Watch the full episode on YouTube for the complete tasting, backstory, and our signature Tortured Bourbon banter.