Tastes
-
A great example of wheated bourbon that isn't just sweetness. Unlike the everyday Wellers (Special Reserve), the Antique 107 offers the burn of a noticeably higher proof. There is a nice viscosity as it sits on the tongue, then flashes of heat in the cheeks and sides of the tongue. A bit of wood char, then tart apples come through quite clearly. Most of the sweetness is crisp and bright, especially noticeable if aerated against the palate. A very nicely balanced whiskey that's easy to get into as long as the higher proof doesn't scare you off. Probably a keeper on my shelves.
-
Rittenhouse Rye Bottled in Bond
Rye — Kentucky, USA
Reviewed October 8, 2015 (edited November 13, 2019)The nose provides a gentle ethanol that opens, but doesn't burn, the sinuses. It is smooth and clean, and carries an herbal quality with some floral notes. Caramelized sugar begins the palate, then a flash of heat on the swallow. Some flavors edge on bitter - citrus peel and nutmeg. The mouth and nasal cavity are left flush with a lingering toasted flavor. Very nice and palatable for the proof, with character and depth due to the flavor profile. An affordable rye that is nice to sip but would be a great player in extraordinary cocktails as well.25.0 USD per Bottle -
Smooth. Smooth nose. Smooth neat. Smooth with water. Smooth with ice. A gentle, non-descript nose. Undeniably bourbon, but no clear aromas differentiate themselves. Opens with butterscotch, rolls on the tongue like salted caramel, then the flash of cinnamon at the back of the tongue. After the swallow, oaky char that slowly transforms into a long-lasting iodine to warm the cheeks. A very nice bourbon - super easy on the front end and just complex enough to satisfy elitists. Recommended.26.0 USD per Bottle
-
Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon
Bourbon — Kentucky, USA
Reviewed September 23, 2015 (edited April 24, 2018)Don't remember too many details, but know I had it after the bro's wedding. Enjoyed it. -
Glenlivet 12 Year Double Oak
Single Malt — Speyside, Scotland
Reviewed September 23, 2015 (edited January 26, 2019)My introduction and Scotch and single malts. The first few sips has me wondering if this was for me, but by the fifth I knew Scotch and me were gonna be alright. For that, I will always thank the Livet. Otherwise, it is simple and relatively pleasant. Not much more or less. Too much burn in my opinion for a 12-year single malt... I do not get that in any of its competitors. Relatively green - grassy, apple, thin honey flavors. Just a little salty. Pro: you know what you are going to get. Con: what you are going to get isn't much to write home about. If you want mass-produced, simple, consistent scotch, I'd recommend Glenfiddich. -
Glenmorangie Lasanta Sherry Cask Finish 12 Year
Single Malt — Highlands, Scotland
Reviewed September 18, 2015 (edited January 26, 2019)Certainly more character than the 10 year, but not saying much for the Glenmorangie style (not a knock, they are just all light and sweet and easy... And given the price point, an easy, palatable, go-to, entry level single malt for new Scotch drinkers). A puff of burn and nasal spice that is largely gone by the 3rd or 4th sip. Sweetness dominates. Raisin notes rise to the top, some orange rind. A dash of oak and the edges rounded out by enough smoke and brine to know its a scotch, but no more. Smooth and approachable, this offering is ultimately forgettable in that the sherry finishing makes it more similar to many highland brands, but good in that it is affordable and widely available. Not a bad Scotch, very good as an introduction, but not one that differentiates enough to recommend highly. Wouldn't fault anyone for having it in their collection as an easy-drinking option, or to offer to the lighter palates. -
Woodford Reserve Bourbon
Bourbon — Kentucky, USA
Reviewed September 11, 2015 (edited October 8, 2015)1 cube, 3 stones. I'm sitting next to the glass, and it is giving off a wonderful aroma even 2 feet away. Catching the bourbon scent adrift on the wind was actually more enticing than the nose, although the chilled serving may have deadened the playfulness a touch. First taste is astringent, with a good amount of heat. Sugar is present, but only arrives later on, and is more of a burnt sugar than sweet. Citrus rind mixes with vanilla. Some bitterness. Only a first impression, but doesn't match my preferred flavor profile. So, for now, not my favorite mass-market "premium" bourbon. In fairness, second half of the glass paired with a creamy 5 Vegas Gold cigar has been more enjoyable... but perhaps that would be true of any spicy dram.
Results 271-280 of 304 Reviews