Bulleit Bourbon Barrel Strength

This is the bourbon to have someone try if they want to understand what bourbon obsessives mean when they endlessly cite "rye spice" as a note. Bulleit sources high-rye bourbons for its entire lineup, and this uncut, undiluted version is the spiciest yet, as if infused with anise, cardamom, fennel, and black pepper. It's also decadently sweet with some good acidity for balance, like an orange marmalade or spiced honey. This is not a particularly old bourbon, so it doesn't feature many oak or wood notes, but it's a winner. Let it sit for a few minutes before sipping, as that heavy alcohol punch needs some time to dissipate. $52 in the gift shop is a great price nowadays for a cask-strength bourbon, so the extra value premium bumps this bottle up in my ratings. I'm not sure what batch this was, but it was 62.7% ABV.

Stronger nose. Still simular to regular Bulleit.

Bitey

Vanilla, honey, dates and a touch of oak.