Fighting Cock 103 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 750 mL

REVIEW FROM BREAKING BOURBON BLOG “Fighting Cock is one of several Heaven Hill’s “value brands”. Bernie Lubbers, an American whiskey brand ambassador for Heaven Hill, stated on the Bourbon Pursuit Podcast that Fighting Cock was released as a direct competitor to Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon. According to Lubbers, Heaven Hill likes to do things “better and cheaper” than the competitors, which is why Fighting Cock has the name it does, and comes in at 103 proof, which is 2 proof points higher than WT 101. Based on its labelling, the law requires the youngest bourbon in the bottle to be at least four years old, however Heaven Hill has stated they continue to include older whiskey in the blend.

Fun fact, Heaven Hill also refers to this brand as the “kickin’ chicken.”

NOSE Banana forward with light vanilla, walnut, and oak in the background. It doesn’t have a complex aroma, but its simplicity doesn’t mean it’s boring either. In fact, it’s quite inviting. There is zero ethanol present, which for a sub $20 higher proof bourbon, is surprising.

PALATE Super sweet with a touch of heat. The palate has a nice mouthfeel, and is dominated by baked bananas drizzled with syrup. Additionally, you get a nice amount of heat via a mixed black and white pepper combination, which ends up complementing the sweeter notes. While the palate is also on the simpler side, it’s very enjoyable.

FINISH The finish is contrasting compared to the sweeter nose and palate that come before it. The peppery heat carries through to start the finish, and is joined with oak and leather to form a drier overall finish profile. The finish is shorter and disappointingly ends rather abruptly without any fanfare.

VALUE Often times people have preconceived notions that if a bourbon is on the bottom shelf and sells for under $20, it must not be that great. Fighting Cock helps to break that perception and delivers an easy to drink bourbon that can be appreciated by anyone. While the nose and palate are simple and the finish is short and dry, overall this is an enjoyable bourbon for the price. Fighting Cock holds up well when compared to its competition in this value price range, especially for the price being offered.”