Tastes

I was not expecting much based off the color and nose - a very light gold that just looks very young, and a fairly light, nondescript nose with a hint of smokiness. Immediate thoughts on first sip were exactly what I was expecting based of color and nose, but then it grew and transformed. Filled out into robust bourbon notes that made me question what I was sipping. I’m genuinely surprised and impressed. For a bourbon lover wanting to explore scotch, this could be a good entry point. A hint of what the scotch world has to offer with a really nice transition to the bourbon characteristics they will enjoy. For $22 (Costco), this is a great bottle.

For an 80 proof, 99% corn mashbill, I’m surprised at how much of a lingering spice there is. Flavor is straight forward with smooth sweet notes, but is just a very basic corn whiskey that will work as a decent mixer or easy sipper if you don’t want to be thinking too much about what you’re drinking. Granted, I came in with low expectations and have come away pleasantly surprised. If I had come with high hopes, I would be disappointed. For a spontaneous clearance shelf item purchase, I’m happy.