Blue Note Crossroads Bourbon Review: A Toast to Southern Soul and French Oak Harmony

Blue Note Crossroads Bourbon is a unique finished bourbon that blends classic Southern craftsmanship with a French oak twist. As part of the Blue Note Bourbon lineup, Crossroads takes their Kentucky-distilled bourbon and finishes it in toasted French oak barrels in Memphis, Tennessee—delivering a rich, bold flavor profile at an affordable price point. In this review, I’ll break down the taste, aroma, and overall experience to help you decide if Blue Note Crossroads is worth a spot on your whiskey shelf.

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Bottle Details:

• Type: Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Toasted French Oak
• ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 50% (100 proof)
• Mash Bill: 70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley
• Age: At least 3 years
• Distillation: Distilled in Kentucky and finished by B.R. Distilling Co. in Memphis
• Price: $39.99

Awards:

• 2023 Double Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• 2023 Editor’s Choice – Bourbon Review Magazine
• 2024 – 92 Points, Wine Enthusiast

Full Disclosure: This bottle was sent to me for review. As always, all opinions are honest, transparent, and unbiased.

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Tasting Notes:

Nose:

The nose of Blue Note Crossroads Bourbon opens with waves of vanilla, toasted oak, and honey-roasted peanuts. The French oak finish adds a unique floral lift and nutty complexity not often found in traditional bourbons. Hints of cinnamon and buttery caramel follow, with a touch of cocoa powder developing after a few minutes in the glass.

Taste:

On the palate, Crossroads delivers a smooth yet full-bodied sip. Notes of caramel, dark cherry, and spiced oak dominate early, balanced by toasted almond and subtle French oak tannins. The 100-proof bottling gives it a structured warmth without being too hot. The mouthfeel is rich, slightly creamy, and impressively well-rounded for a finished bourbon at this price. If I didn’t know better, I would have guessed this was around the 6 year age. That’s what the French Oak can do to you!

Finish:

The finish is long, warming, and satisfying, with lingering flavors of cocoa, toasted wood, and dry oak. The French oak’s influence continues through to the end, offering a soft tannic grip without excessive dryness. While there’s a hint of youth in the background, it’s subtle and well-managed by the oak finish.

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How Much Would I Pay for Blue Note Crossroads Bourbon?

At $39.99, Blue Note Crossroads offers exceptional value in the finished bourbon space. The French oak adds character, complexity, and a distinctive twist that sets it apart from many bourbons under $50.

💸 Max Price I Would Pay: $59 💸
Crossroads is absolutely worth up to $59 based on flavor, proof, and the uniqueness of the French oak finish. If you see it in this price range, don’t hesitate to grab it.