Tastes

To be frank, a score of 94 on this one is unmerited. My expectations were high and this one falls flat with with a lot to be desired. It's bourbon. It's not bad but it's not that great either. After several drams, I'm still wondering what all the fuss is about. Drinking whiskey should be about the appreciation of each sip and the craftsmanship that went into it. Sipping this is a practice in tolerance. It's just not all that fun or engaging. (FWF share #9)

I genuinely like this Suntory entry. It's less medicinal then other variations I've had and the attention to traditional Islay notes is a welcomed feature. This whiskey is smooth with character of its own right. It's not exactly your "traditional" scotch, but it plays homage in all the right ways. Mild peat with a subtle smoky profile greet you on the nose. This one packs an intriguing and slight burn while it settles in. It's quite a nice alternative when you're in a more adventurous mood. (FWF share #15)

This is pretty good overall. The initial taste does not end where you expect it. Starts sweet with a jagged edge at the end. This is a solid entry for someone looking for a great entry whiskey. (FWF share #12)

The more I drink of this, the more I genuinely love it. This one was such a surprise. It's distinct from your standard bourbon and hits each note with confidence. I have to say, this was my first dabble in a Tennessee whiskey and it's set the bar extremely high. Sweet tones like maple and brown sugar. Warm and soothing while you enjoy it. It's a true charmer. (FWF share #13)

This has unrivaled character and depth to it. It's like nothing I've ever tasted before. Initially, I just didn't get it. After a second dram, I can't think of many other whiskeys that satisfy in such a unique way. This is complex and smooth with little bite. It's easy to sip and has just enough satisfying warmth to keep you coming back for more. Let it sit on your mouth a moment to fully experience its woody and dark wine-like notes. This is one I've shared that everyone seems to love. (FWF share #18) Buy #2 Opened: 6/8/18 Finished: 3/13/19

This stuff is solid. It's sweet with a warmer finish. It has a lighter and less complex body but is bold in its exit. (FWF share #6)

Bulleit is easy to overlook. It’s one of the easiest bourbons (or ryes) to obtain, as you can find it just about anywhere. It dresses the shelves of every whisk(e)y bar or bank. It’s a great addition to cocktails, and offers bite in all the right places. It has become so common place, it’s hard not to look past it and toward other, sexier bourbons. But that would be foolish. At $21.99 and $22.99 respectively for Bulleit Rye, there’s no doubt the price is right. This however, is a bit of a catch 22. That price point begs to be used in a shaker or highball iced coffee drink, not sipped neatly from a Glencairn. It seems like a throw away bourbon, one given to a significant other because you don’t want them to waste “my good stuff” in cocktails. And so it is, Bulleit, sitting on the shelf, living it’s half life, knowing it’s so much more, but unable to break the glass ceiling of its own doing. This is for you old friend. FIRST IMPRESSIONS - Upon nosing and first sip, one would be pressed to find something as good for the price. It’s alluring, sweet, and offers something straightforward with decadence in some intriguing ways. NOSE - In my initial nosing, I immediately found wet bark and oak, accompanied by some lovely floral and herbal tones. Imagine picking wild flowers next to an old shed after a fresh rain. This was quickly followed up with vanilla, cinnamon, and a sweet lemon cream. Though it’s relatively low proof at 90, I added a drop to see what might come out and discovered caramel, toasted oats and extremely subtle spearmint. PALATE - The palate is medium bodied and savory with a nice buttery entrance, then moving over to display a tart red cherry and lemon zest. This dram offers a bit more in the mouth and rounds out the experience. WASH - The finish is well balanced with a nice spicy kick due to the high rye ratio in the mash bill. This allows the wash to stay longer and gives the impression of an oiler, more expensive bourbon than what’s actually in your glass. CONCLUSION - Is Bulleit the best bourbon? No, you can find better. But finding better typically adds a much higher price point and in some cases, offers less complexity and fun. For its inexpensive price, versatility, and for being a well rounded dram under $23.00 per bottle, it’s insane not to make this bourbon a staple on your shelf. Add Bulleit Rye and you’ll have yourself a dynamic duo for under $50. That’s worth talking about.

This whiskey sways you initially with a light a vibrant profile, bright with subtle peat and smooth character. The smoothness it carries is only complimented by a rich smoky finish. This one is deserves to be enjoyed thoroughly and with great reflection of what is in your glass. (FWF share #5)

A welcome spicy note that lingers at the end. Savory and riveting. This isn't a lazy bourbon by any means. It starts strong and ends strong with a brilliant liveliness to it. (FWF share #20)

Balanced and delicious. This is undeniably smoky with strong notes of peat and sweetness. What a masterpiece. This is what you want for a single malt of this caliber. (FWF share #2) Buy #3 Opened: 12/25/18 Finished: