Tastes

This is what I want bourbon to taste like. Absolutely no off-flavors, super smooth, and not at all spicy or hot. I like EW black, and I really like EW single barrel. I feel the same way about JD and its evolutions. And even though I like barrel strength, I'm warming up to these watered down expressions. (86 proof is a bit weak to me)

Really hot and way stronger than you expected, but savor the flavors and power through. This drink has so much to offer, so many layers, such depth. Several minutes after the last swallow there's still a wonderful afterglow.

I'm a Tennessee native, Vol for life, etc. Started my whiskey journey in good old Scotland and stayed there for years. Finally developed a taste for bourbon and tried a bunch of Kentucky's finest. Guess I missed what was right in front of me in Lynchburg. Big mistake. Tried Gentleman Jack and knew I was on to something, then got the barrel strength expression of JD which is simply awesome. Everything the expert review says and more. His 92 is conservative for sure.

Really good, pleasant flavors, not at all hot or spicy. (Room temperature, neat).

Smoooooth

Side by side with Bulleit rye, this one is head and shoulders above. Still a bit more bite than some lower price bottles though.

Doing a side by side with Bulleit bourbon and I get a harsh taste from the rye. Maybe it's ok as a stand alone, but I just can't shake the burning plastic notes lingering in my nose. Like a Boy Scout flag retirement, and I would know.

After several evenings with this bottle, I just don't feel the love. Certainly this is a good bourbon, but in my opinion it's not a great one. Guess I'm getting too picky in my old age.