1792 Full Proof Straight Bourbon

This was a sample provided by a friend, and a generous 4oz sample at that! I went into it blind and first guess would have been a BT product based on the light but balanced nose - apricot, wood, floral notes... wrong. The palate landed hotter than expected - a kick of heat that faded gradually into a nice viscous coating. Admittedly I had no idea of the proof and guessed somewhere around 115. It was full sun-dried oak and maybe a bit of cedar. There was a rush of cinnamon and nutmeg that faded to an earthy, wet, brown tobacco. Subsequent sips brought out more walnut mid-palate. The finish was medium and showcased some of the stone fruit and wood notes once again. At this point I’m thinking 10-14 years. Profile had me stumped. Nose like BT, palate not unlike HH or an odd Beam. More cinnamon than I’m accustom to with HH. At this point all of my guesses were wrong. I was told 125 proof and 8 1/2 years. This would make it the most mellow and complex Bookers I’d ever had or... this can’t be 1792... Unlike the barrel pick I’ve come to adore this locked the bananas foster notes, had more cinnamon and that amazing rush of wet brown tobacco. I honestly scratched my head and wondered how they could be the same. Goes to show what difference a single barrel can make and I will have to put these head to head at some point. Both are fantastic and I honestly might prefer this bottle over my single barrel for the earthy/tobacco notes that I love from Eagle Rare. Can see why this one continues to be lauded, there’s some magic in them there barrels. Would go higher in the score if the finish lasted longer or there were some flavor switch ups. That said, this is without detectable flaw and very well balanced.

Great bourbon but who-dog is it spicy! Really excellent flavor once you get past the Kentucky Hug, it just takes a few extra sips to get there. Nice rich flavor.