Henry McKenna Sour Mash Bourbon

Henry McKenna Sour Mash is an easygoing, no-frills bourbon that delivers exactly what you’d expect from a classic Kentucky straight whiskey. Named after the Irish immigrant who brought his family’s whiskey-making tradition to Kentucky in the 19th century, this bourbon sticks to the fundamentals: a mash bill high in corn, a gentle aging process, and a light, approachable profile. While it may not stand out in Heaven Hill’s lineup, it fills an important niche—offering a straightforward, budget-friendly bourbon that’s as comfortable in a highball as it is in a casual pour.

Product Details

• Distillery: Heaven Hill
• Type & Region: Straight Bourbon, Kentucky, USA
• Alcohol: 40% ABV (80 Proof)
• Aging: NAS (Aged at least 4 years, per TTB regulations)
• Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye

Tasting Notes

Jennifer Maglieri, co-owner of Wine Dispensary, describes Henry McKenna Sour Mash as a light and easy-drinking bourbon with a straightforward character. The nose leads with caramel and vanilla, followed by a faint citrus note reminiscent of lemon-lime soda. Hints of toasted oak and mild baking spice add a bit of depth, but the overall impression is soft and subtle. The palate mirrors the aroma, with caramel taking the lead alongside gentle corn sweetness and a touch of spice. A whisper of dried fruit and oak drifts in, though the mouthfeel remains light and uncomplicated. The finish is medium in length, lingering with notes of vanilla, charred oak, and caramel. “It’s not going to knock you over with complexity,” Jennifer says, “but at this price, it doesn’t have to—it’s a solid, classic bourbon for everyday sipping.”

Distiller’s Background

Produced by Heaven Hill, one of Kentucky’s last family-owned distilleries, Henry McKenna Sour Mash is a staple of the value bourbon category. Though it shares a mash bill with many of the distillery’s other well-known brands, this expression sits at the lower end of the proof scale, making it one of the more approachable and easy-drinking options in their portfolio. Notably, Heaven Hill does not prominently feature Henry McKenna Sour Mash on its website, leading to speculation that it may be phased out in the near future.

Serving Suggestions

Henry McKenna Sour Mash is a classic mixing bourbon, making it a great choice for cocktails where a lighter whiskey works best. Try it in a Whiskey & Soda for a refreshing highball, or in an Easy Old Fashioned, where its smooth caramel and vanilla notes complement a touch of sugar and bitters. It’s also a great option for large-batch cocktails, such as a Whiskey Punch or a Bourbon Iced Tea, where its mellow profile blends seamlessly with other ingredients. For a simple, no-fuss sip, enjoy it neat or over ice while unwinding after a long day.