Tastes
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Benchmark Full Proof Bourbon (125 Proof)
Bourbon — Kentucky, USA
Reviewed October 14, 2022 (edited April 11, 2023)This is a 4 star when price is factored in. What a butterscotch bomb. Very good given the price. Not complex but honestly good neat, if a little rough around the edges. Would add quite a punch to any cocktail as well. If you see one, pick it up! -
Nose -- smell reminds me of the inside of a wood shop, freshly cut wood and something that reminds me of varnished wood as well. Not much to note other than this, but with the 1 year age statement I imagine this is likely to smell and taste as young as it seems it's going to. Taste -- starts off pleasant enough, with a touch of vanilla/brown sugar, but this does not last and quickly vanishes into that straight freshly cut wood note and a sharp astringency that is, frankly, not pleasant. I think there is something here that some age and time could possibly save, but in this 1 year aged batch, I think it is best skipped, especially considering the cost.
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My first foray into Cognac. Wasn't sure what to expect going in, and not sure I understood it until about my fifth taste. Starts off with flavors familiar to any seasoned whiskey drinker, with a sweetness that I found it hard to put my finger on, followed up by a big woody oak note. After this point, however, I found that it fades into a finish of almost a dark chocolate style bitterness that lingers on the front of the palate. After several tries, I've kind of come to the conclusion that if someone made a whiskey/semi-dry-red-wine hybrid, this would be about what I'd expect it to be. I get a lot of the same notes I get out of a Cabernet that's on the sweeter side, with a larger oak punch and alcohol bite. A lot of the sweet notes seem to be in the red-grape realm. I definitely enjoy it overall, and will be getting more Cognacs to try as a result.56.99 USD per BottleBolivar Spirits
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