BOTTLE DETAILS
- DISTILLER: R. Duke Co. for Gonzo Whiskey Co.
- MASH BILL: Not disclosed, but at least 51% corn and some portion of wheat
- AGE: 4 years though with 6-year-old barrels within the blend
- YEAR: 2025
- PROOF: 103 (51.5% AVB)
- MSRP: $69
- BUY ONLINE: Gonzo Online Whiskey Shop
STEVE’S NOTES
SHARE WITH: All bourbon fans. And, well, fans of the author himself, Hunter S. Thompson.
WORTH THE PRICE: It’s a little high for a youngish whiskey, but hey, it’s an interesting conversation piece for sure, and it might lead some to read his wild-ride writing.
BOTTLE, BAR OR BUST: Bar. Try before you buy.
OVERALL: The brand story starts like this: “Founded in 2019 in partnership with Hunter S. Thompson’s estate, Gonzo Whiskey immerses people in the bold, rebellious world of the legendary writer. With roots in Colorado and Kentucky, each release is inspired by him and connects consumers with the places that shaped his life. This is whiskey for those who live unapologetically.”
“I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.”
Anyone who’s read Thompson’s work or stories about him knows he loved whiskey (Wild Turkey, legend has it) and all manner of substances that would lead a man toward bad behavior that all-but required apologies. On his Wikipedia page, he’s quoted saying, “I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.” That sums him up tidily.
His most famous book, “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” still sells 70,000 copies annually, and every year the Kentucky Derby kicks off in our shared hometown of Louisville, Ky., his infamous feature story, “The Kentucky Derby is Decadent and Depraved,” is read, shared and discussed by countless fans, old and becoming, and most of whom will forever wonder how he managed to live 68 years. As the man himself said, “Some may never live, but the crazy never die.”
The brand story continues here: “In 2018, Anita Thompson, Hunter’s late wife (that’s how it reads, but she’s still alive), facilitated the organization of industry innovators and Hunter’s close friends over the years to form Gonzo Whiskey. Born from Aspen’s reverence for Hunter and rooted at his iconic Owl Farm, Gonzo Whiskey connects Hunter’s Kentucky legacy with the untamed spirit of his Colorado home.”
There’s no end to celebrity whiskies coming to the market, but dead celebrity bottles are by and large rarities. Surely I’m not the only one surprised that one was created and dedicated to Thompson, but this group of family and friends loved him enough to do it. So take that, Mr. Cynic, and now tell us how it tastes!
The nose on this wheated bourbon is terrific: abundantly floral–practically blooming in the glass–honeyed, caramel corn, strawberry jelly; wholly inviting and surprisingly bright.
That fruit character carries over to the palate with cherry candy, flat Sprite, hot toddy, clove and cinnamon. It’s a sweet treat for sure, but the proof helps it spice its way out of being anywhere near cloying. Subsequent sips bring darker notes of oak, a little wood smoke and fire-cured tobacco, and a finish that’s semi-long and warm. Find me someone who doesn’t like this and I’ll doubt their understanding of basic bourbon made really well, not to mention, uniquely.
I’m like any reviewer who immediately wants to dislike celebrity whiskies because most of those pours are never good. So, since this one’s actually worth drinking, is it because the celebrity wasn’t involved in it at all? Who knows? Perhaps he’s speaking about his whiskey from the grave in this old quote: “Sleep late, have fun, get wild, drink whiskey and drive fast on empty streets with nothing in mind but falling in love and not getting arrested.”
BourbonBanter.com does not in any way endorse this advice … except for drinking whiskey and falling in love. – B&B Legal Team
BRAND NOTES
Dr. Gonzo is an unhurried whiskey with distinct character, a perfect blend of 4- 6-year-old barrels. It strikes a balance, delivering rich flavors of caramel, vanilla and spice, with a finish that lingers. No shortcuts–this whiskey stands up to any challenge.
Disclaimer: Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.
