Bluestone Manor Straight Bourbon Whiskey came about due to the vision of American entrepreneur and former cast member of Real Housewives of New York, Dorinda Medley. This wheated bourbon is named after Medley’s Berkshires home in Massachusetts, which was built in 1902 and is said to have been a speakeasy during prohibition in the 1920s. Medley was also inspired to create this new whiskey due to her late husband Richard’s affinity for bourbon.

In addition to being involved in the branding, marketing and selling of this bourbon, Medley took her time in carefully selecting the distinctive 750 ml decanter bottle style. In a prepared statement, Medley said “Bluestone Manor is a special place I call home. I wanted to bring this feeling to life in a Bourbon. Anyone can enjoy a glass of my bourbon and find themselves transported to the Manor.”

It is a dark golden caramel color with vanilla and cinnamon and a hint of dried fruit on the nose. The palate has hints of toasted dark cherry which adds brightness.
The spicy oakiness of this whiskey gives way to a warm and velvety medium-long finish. This spirit is a fantastic choice for those who aren’t necessarily bourbon drinkers, but are interested in exploring it. The initial heat on the nose is nicely inviting and the smoothness on the palate makes it very approachable. Its soft, straightforward character makes this an ideal whiskey for taking one’s time to enjoy.