Spirit brands like Fierce & Kind are few and far between, not only because of exceptional quality but also because of the top-to-bottom focus and execution of F&K’s admirable mission. The San Diego brand’s founding principle is to bring people together through great-tasting spirits and community outreach. No matter your background or intent, Fierce & Kind is happy to pour a sample of its bourbon, with a quarter of its proceeds going directly to the brand’s community-minded foundation. And, while Fierce & Kind’s lineup extends beyond whiskey – it also produces vodka – its two signature bourbons have earned widespread recognition despite its short lifespan.

Tasting Notes

Straight Bourbon

Fierce & Kind’s flagship straight bourbon is aged two years and five months in highly charred casks in North Carolina and bottled at 86 proof. The high rye mash bill (right up my alley) includes 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. It’s approachable and silky smooth, striking all the traditional bourbon chords. There is heavy vanilla on the nose, plus pecan and stone fruit notes. The palate brings more vanilla, along with its common companion of caramel and a pleasant spicy heat. The finish is long and warm, carrying a lingering softness that is perfectly diluted and holds an oily texture. This bourbon will appeal to experts and newcomers alike – after all, it did win a silver medal at the L.A. Spirits Competition 2023!

Cask Strength Single Barrel

Like the Straight Bourbon, this cask-strength whiskey checks my “personal preference” boxes. It’s an intriguing bourbon made with the same mash bill but aged for an additional three months and bottled at its cask strength of 110 proof (55% ABV). The added heat from the heightened ABV immediately makes for a more spice-filled bourbon. The peppery character of the rye is encouraged by baking spice notes such as cinnamon and clove. The same lush vanilla and caramel permeate its more viscous texture, which remains soft and silky despite the alcohol bump. The finish is also very similar, just elongated and spicier. This cask-strength, single-barrel bottling is an exclamation of the brand’s signature expression, each element amplified in this purer form.

Final Thoughts

I prefer the Cask Strength Single Barrel over the Straight Bourbon as it offers the same traditional, straightforward bourbon profile on a more intensified scale. I admire Fierce & Kind for keeping things simple and accessible. Not only is it refreshing in an ever-growing industry eager to experiment, it just works.