Brough Brothers Bourbon Review | Catch the Spirit of Kentucky | The Liquor Connoisseur
- connoisseurofliquo
- Apr 26
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Brough Brothers Bourbon is the first Black-owned bourbon distillery in Kentucky history. Crystal and Roger open this bottle knowing that history and evaluate the liquid with the same standards they apply to every pour — and the bourbon delivers on both counts.
Bottle Specs
Spirit: Brough Brothers Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Brough Brothers Distillery, Louisville, Kentucky
Founders: Victor, Christian, and Phillip Yarbrough — brothers
Historic distinction: First Black-owned bourbon distillery in Kentucky
Category: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV: ~45%
Price: ~$40–50
The Historic Significance
Kentucky has been making bourbon for over 200 years. Brough Brothers opened in 2020 as the first Black-owned bourbon distillery in the state's history — a fact that is simultaneously inspiring and sobering. The Yarbrough brothers built the distillery with awareness of that history and with a mission to prove that Black ownership in bourbon is not just possible but excellent.
Tasting Notes — Nose, Palate, Finish
Nose: Approachable and warm — classic Kentucky bourbon notes of caramel, vanilla, and a light grain sweetness. Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied with caramel and vanilla leading. A gentle rye spice in the mid-palate adds complexity without aggression. Finish: Clean and medium-length with a pleasant warmth and sweet aftertaste.
Why History and Quality Are Not Competing Arguments
Crystal and Roger make this point directly: supporting Brough Brothers because of its historic significance and supporting it because it's genuinely good bourbon are not separate arguments — they're the same argument. The Yarbrough brothers made a bourbon worth drinking, and the historic context makes every pour more meaningful.
🥃 Crystal & Roger's LC Recommendations
Buy it now: Brough Brothers is a historic first and a quality bourbon. There's no reason to wait.
As a gift: This is one of the most meaningful spirit gifts available — great liquid plus a story worth telling. A gift that starts a conversation.
For Kentucky bourbon enthusiasts: Add Brough Brothers to your Kentucky collection. The historic significance will matter more and more as the brand grows.
LC Verdict
History and quality in the same bottle. Brough Brothers proves that the first Black-owned bourbon distillery in Kentucky history is also a genuinely excellent bourbon distillery.
Drink To Remember, Not To Forget. 🥃
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