Tastes

For the price, I'd take this again although not what I expected. A bit spicy on the tongue and pure smoke. Rich and full, but not as peaty as billed. The bourbon influence infuses a tang and the fruit is a bit more hidden but lingers in the aftertaste.

Best Canadian whiskey I've had. Honestly didn't know what it was when I got it as a wedding gift from a friend. Sweet and smooth. This is a dessert whiskey if I've ever had one.

Aside from one good backpacking trip through Ireland in '08, I have no use for this. Ether is masked by heavy smoke and peat. Very oily. The vanilla and fruit don't come out very well when drank straight.

Black is peaty and for that I would drink it often but in its price category it is clearly not my favorite. I wish it was less tart and oily, but love the smoke and spices.

This is the first Jack product I actually enjoyed. Smooth, sweet and crisp, yet full. A little more oily than I like and definitely best served with a touch of ice.

Closer to 2.5 stars, just don't follow a fine bourbon or scotch with this bottle. It has a bit too much ethanol taste that can hide the oak and cherry flavors. Not as sour as Jack.

Damn fine bourbon. Changed my tune about Jim Beam forever. Had this again on site in Fall of 2014 during NAILE. Oak spice is mellowed by charcoal, vanilla sweetness and something tangy (apples?). Buy often and keep stocked. This is something that would truly be missed if it was removed from the market. Don't buy it on site, though, because it is marked up about 20%.

More fruity and sweet than I remembered but still has the bite I regret at 2 am. I don't taste the strong vanilla but I know it comes out better when mixed. Wish it was smokier but it is clear at the start and harsh near the end.

Best rye variety I've tasted. Less pepper and more just broad spicy flavor. It is bold and full but cleaner than a bourbon. Spiced tea and oak are good summary flavors. Just a bit harsh and bold.

Not my favorite bourbon straight but a little ice smooths it out and brings better flavor into the open. Dare I say too much bite from the oak when combined with the spice and strong corn distillation. But it is sweet and tart, slightly floral. Not as smokey as I remembered. Very full and oily.