Tastes

If you enjoy huffing Elmer's glue with a hint of maple syrup you might enjoy this off-putting whisky. If you're looking for a cheap Canadian you're much better off with Crown Royal.

For a bargain barrel bourbon this really isn't bad. It doesn't need water or ice as its only 80 proof. At around twice the price and still under $30 you should probably give Evan Williams Single Barrel a look. It's markedly more complex than both the green and black labels.

I didn't dislike it... but I'm not sure if I'd buy a bottle. Interestingly the smoke did not hit me like the iodine medicinal notes typical of Islay malts. Somehow mixing the Scotch with bourbon shaped the smoke into something different altogether. Campfire was meaty and smoky - and actually reminded me of BBQ Brisket in sort of a weird way. For bourbon drinkers the smoke might be shocking to the palate, but if you're used to Islay peated malts this is actually quite approachable - albeit sort of a unique (almost weird) flavor.

Definitely got some of the same notes I get from Four Roses Small Batch, so there must be some rye in the bourbon mashbill. It was too hot, a little water helped tame it but still has some rough edges

I have grown to really like Oban. It's in the vein of Balvenie Doublewood but with a tad more complexity (and also no peat). Worth trying if you can find it for a reasonable price near you. Nose: Floral, green apple (added water) much fuller, creme brûlée, slight leather saddle Taste: Tart but still sweet fruit, pear, lemon, slight oak, apple Finish: tart, long, oak