Tastes

Is it cheap? Sure is. But does it taste cheap? Not at all. It's not BTAC or anything top shelf, but it sure beats out tons of other new bourbons at triple its price that flood today's market. It's a solid, traditional pour, worth having on hand, and can be found at any store in the U.S.

One of the genuinely best values in any American whiskey. Simple, yes, but it does it's sweet corn well. It's not complex, but it by no means tastes cheap or artificial. It's just solid juice that goes well neat, holds up over ice, and imparts great flavors in cocktails. At under $20, it's insane how good it is.

You could do worse, but you could do a whole lot better. If Buffalo Trace is what you're after, just pay the extra ten dollars for actual Buffalo Trace and have something leagues better. Benchmark isn't bad, but I can't honestly call it good either. If you can't find another BF product with the same mashbill in your area, this won't really scratch the itch, so don't bother. It's most redeeming quality is including in double blind tastings for friends to have a curve ball in the mix. At $12, it's not a waste, but life's too short for disappointing bourbon.

Not offensive. But if you're more than an occasional bourbon fan, just stick with the Evan Williams BiB white label. 1783 has some notes that make it feel a little older than it is, but it might actually detract from the juice as it leaves you wanting a higher proof and a few more years to really hit the target. BiB knows what it is and does it exceptionally well at the price point, so stick with it instead.

Don't look to this for complexity. But enjoy the simplicity of a nose like a sweet roll factory. It has a delicate, silky mouthfeel you won't find in another whiskey and a decent finish that satisfies when you just want to enjoy a drink. Even high-proof officianados can enjoy, just don't combine with food or think too hard about it.

A truly impressive, high proof powerhouse. It needs time in the glass to open up, but as it does both the nose and pallet change in surprising ways while keeping the central flavor profile. Unique and worth the price of admission, it's hard to compare to another wheated premium bourbon due to the Texas white corn and aging conditions. Perhaps the most impressive aspect is the smooth, easy drinking quality the juice exhibits after some time to aerate. At nearly 140 proof, it's incredible how balanced the heat is with the rest of the flavors while it still coats the mouth as a high proof should. Many may question Garrison Brothers price point across thier offerings, but the 2022 Cowboy commands a high SRP for good reason.

One of the best examples of a peated Islay that you won't regret buying, if you ever get the chance. It takes the 16's profile and expands it further. If you're already a fan of Lagavulin's main releases, you'll love this too. It's really a treat to drink a malt as they were intended 100+ years ago.

A great entry scotch for those dilling their tow into peat. On the sweeter side, with reminders of Highland drams. The peat is manageable and offsets the fruity, sherry like notes. Underrated and affordable.

I'm not superstitious, but I am a little 'stitious. I am super into this scotch though. Not an entry level whiskey, the smoke and peat up front may scare the uninitiated. However, the complexity hidden behind those dominant, forward flavors is incredible. Add to that a cool bottle and name, and it's a must for everyone's collection. It's a shame it's been discontinued.

Excellent dram, well balanced with a surprising peat that calls more to Islay than other Highlands. Vanilla and Pepper to the nose, well worth the price. It's no wonder its captured The Open.