Tastes

Smooth and easy recommendation for a "step up" from the everyday stuff. Nice enough to feel special, but you shouldn't feel any qualms tossing it in with a mixer.

Very drinkable but spicy with some character. An easy recommendation for an affordable standout.

Great balance. Extremely drinkable. A bit more kick than Blanton's but has a little iodine funk in comparison.

Very strong cinnamon profile. It's so bold that's really all I get. Neat there is a distinctive licorice undertone, but it hides with a little water or ice. Perhaps more of a woody licorice, like angostura bitters. Sweet, but not cloying and sticky like schnapps. Very clean and smooth and oh so spicy. A little pricey for what it is, but my favorite rye. Really not too up in arms about the sourcing and flavoring evisceration they are going through... It's like people knew nothing about the industry. I knew a quick Google search after my first sip 4 years ago that it wasn't from Iowa, and many more whiskies have flavorings than we realize. Forget about the hype and drink what tastes good.

A favorite of the mid-range bourbons. Affordable, complex, flavorful. Was introduced to it in a 3-way taste off vs. Woodford Reserve and Knob Creek. The bird was the clear cut winner. Much smoother and more playful on the palate. I kept going back to get more. Also great for higher end cocktails. A great one with apple cider, lemon, and maple syrup... oh lord it's good.

Go-to introduction to Irish. There is a reason that it's the top seller... This is about as easy-drinkin as they come. An easy recommendation, but one most enthusiasts move on from as lacking complexity. I'd never turn it down. Predominant orange-like flavor - both the sweet juice and bitter rind.

A git'r done workhorse spirit. Plenty good enough for all of your mixing desires, but I might shy away from too much straight sipping. Falls a step behind Evan black there, and the handles usually cost a few bucks more. I won't turn it down, but usually don't own a bottle.

Been my go-to for 10 years now, so I have a bias, but I think it's well founded. EW black is the cream of the crop regarding bang for your buck. A fantastic mixing bourbon that is good enough to drink on its own. Light years better flavor profile than Jack, but that may be a bourbon preference. This is the only one you need, all the rest should be special for the adventure of it all.

I wasn't as turned off as many other reviewers were, but found nothing sufficiently good enough to separate it from the pack. It's a bit harsh overall, with only hints of real flavor. A so-so affordable drink that doesn't deserve to occupy a mouth in this age when so many better options are available.