Review of Dark Arts 7.5 Year Straight Bourbon Finished in Red Port and White Port Casks

This review of Dark Arts 7.5 Year Straight Bourbon Finished in Red Port and White Port Casks is a little closer to my heart than most. Why? Before COVID, my wife and I spent three years living in Portugal. Those years were some of the happiest of our married life, and during that time we developed a deep appreciation for Port wine. In fact, Porto became my favorite city in all of Portugal. As the home of Port wine, it is nearly impossible to live in Portugal without falling in love with the rich, layered character of ruby, tawny white, and tawny brown ports. So, with that personal connection in mind, let’s get into the review.

Nose

The nose opens with a lush mix of dark fruits and red berries. Blueberry and raspberry immediately stand out, wrapped in a creamy vanilla sweetness that initially suggests a ruby port influence. Given the dual cask finish, though, the profile evolves with time in the glass. Beneath the fruit are faint layers of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg, adding subtle warmth without overpowering the sweeter notes. As it settles, the aroma leans into a black cherry cream confection profile, with the baking spices sitting comfortably in the background. This is a bourbon that rewards a patient nosing experience; give it a minute or two to open up, and the nose becomes remarkably inviting, adding notes of dark brown sugar.

Palate

The palate begins with a luscious sweetness at the tip of the tongue before shifting into a spicier profile. The tasting experience evolves depending on how thoroughly you allow the whiskey to coat the tongue. With time, a rich honeyed sweetness develops, and the white port influence becomes more pronounced than it was on the nose. Even so, there are still hints of fig, raisin, tobacco, and dark fruit commonly associated with tawny port. As the whiskey reaches the mid-palate, it transitions into a drying, tannic combination of tart berries, seasoned dry oak, and cigar box notes, giving the pour more character.

Finish

The finish carries lingering notes of black currant and tart berries, gradually becoming more tannic while still retaining touches of sweetness and soft herbal complexity. Dry oak and woody spice remain on the tongue, creating a slightly rustic and tannic-wine-driven conclusion that reflects the red wine cask influence.