Bulleit Bourbon Barrel Strength

This smells kind of like citrus fruit and it tastes kind of like it too. There is some nice clean orange with that familiar high proof alcohol. It's sweet with a refreshingly clean alcohol flavor. This may be Bulleit's answer to Knob Creek Single Barrel. The tartness and mineral work really well with the orange, as does the hint of apricot. The barrel is relatively understated, but it is still good. I really enjoy this. Water opens it up a bit, cutting down on that beautiful citrus but bringing out some nice wood. It doesn't have that nice robust aged flavor and endless complexity, but it does have a nice clean flavor with a few things going on. The smoke does elevate it beyond alcohol and balances the sweetness. There's eventually some nuttiness here that I really appreciate. There's some almond, hazelnut, and coconut. If the nuts stood out more, this could be a really amazing bourbon. The complexity eventually becomes quite good, but it takes its time. The spiciness is quite pronounced with a mix of cinnamon and black pepper, as well as maybe a bit of clove, but it is not overwhelming despite being really strong. This is a great drink that is gradually complex and well worth sipping. There might be a hint of maple and something medicinal going on here.

We run blind tastings and this one recently came out on top in a good lineup of previous winners. I am hoping there is some consistency from bottle to bottle. From nose to finish, this one has great sweet and spicy balance.

Tasting alone on the rocks. Easy to drink, little to no burn, pretty smooth, small lingering aftertaste but pleasant. Not much of an odor, good or bad. Would have a second glass.. or more. Favorable.