Benchmark Single Barrel Bourbon (95 Proof)

This is a 4.25 relative to its price point. Yummy, easy sipper I hope to keep around.

As you pour yourself a glass of Benchmark Single Barrel, the first thing you notice is the rich aroma of baking spice and freshly baked cookie dough wafting from the glass. As you take your first sip, the smoothness of the entry immediately impresses you, while the palate reveals a complex mix of flavors, including the robustness of Assam black tea, the warmth of cinnamon, and the subtle notes of oak. The finish is equally impressive, with the perfect blend of pipe tobacco and cinnamon, leaving a lingering, satisfying aftertaste. This whiskey is truly a work of art.

On the nose it starts out sweet then rolls into a cinnamon spice finish. The same profile is there on the palette but there is the slightest hint of an orange note evident before the cinnamon spice rolls in. The cinnamon spice does not overwhelm but more compliments the sweet start.

A winner. Let it open for a while. Neat - thin, sweet with light spices, followed ny orage peel. Short dry finish. Slash of water - tones down the upfront spices. Orange is muted also, cinnamon foward. Dry finish remains. Warm, sweet drink follows.