For Day Twenty-One of the 30 Days of Bourbon, I’m pouring something that’s both unique and bold—RD 1 Spirits Amburana Finish, specifically a single barrel selection from Revival Vintage Spirits. RD 1 is an emerging player in the Kentucky craft distilling scene, but they’ve already made a name for themselves by pushing the boundaries of traditional bourbon finishes. Located in Lexington, Kentucky, RD 1 Spirits is dedicated to crafting small-batch bourbons and exploring innovative finishing techniques that showcase new flavor profiles. The distillery itself honors Lexington’s rich history in whiskey-making, taking its name from the first federally registered distillery in Lexington, which dates back to the late 1800s. While relatively new, RD 1 is quickly becoming known for their adventurous approach to bourbon.
Amburana is a type of Brazilian hardwood that has become increasingly popular in whiskey finishing. Known for imparting intense, spicy, and aromatic flavors, it’s quite different from the oak barrels typically used in bourbon aging. Amburana barrels add a distinctive character—often described as cinnamon, baking spices, and even a hint of floral sweetness. But they can be tricky to work with. The strong flavors can quickly dominate a whiskey, making balance a challenge.
I’ve had a few Amburana-finished whiskeys, and while the flavors are always interesting, RD 1’s Amburana Finish is the first one I’ve encountered that truly nails it. This bourbon, from barrel #1022, manages to capture the essence of the wood without letting it overwhelm the spirit. You still get those rich cinnamon and baking spice notes that Amburana is known for, but they’re balanced by the underlying caramel, vanilla, and oak from the bourbon itself.
On the nose, you’ll pick up aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, with a subtle sweetness. But it’s on the palate where this Amburana finish really shines—my first taste immediately brought to mind a McDonald’s Apple Pie. The cinnamon is unmistakable, along with rich brown sugar and that baked apple warmth. The flavors layer beautifully, with the Amburana wood adding cinnamon roll-like sweetness, while still letting the bourbon’s caramel, vanilla, and soft oak shine through. The finish is long and warm, leaving lingering hints of baking spices, brown sugar, and a touch of fruit. It’s a “wow” experience every time, hitting the perfect balance between sweetness, spice, and the bourbon’s original character.
If you’re looking for a bourbon that’s different but still balanced, RD 1 Spirits’ Amburana Finish is worth seeking out. This single barrel selection shows off what the distillery can do, and if you’re a fan of spice-forward bourbons, this bottle is a must-try.
Distiller: RD 1 Spirits
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Age: No Age Statement
Finish: Amburana Cask
Proof: 122 (61% ABV)
Barrel: #1022, selected by Revival Vintage Spirits
Availability: This specific single barrel is limited, but the Amburana Finish is part of RD 1’s available lineup in select markets.
