Ezra Brooks 90 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Before I give my opinion, we need to clear a few things up: First and foremost — WHY isn't this listed higher on the spicy index? The alcohol bite is something that is felt throughout the entirety of each sip, but it's not too bad after the first sip. Secondly, why the hell are people complaining about this bourbon having a "nail polish remover" nose? I mean, I understand it, but what I'm really asking is why they're writing a tasting note after the first few sips, especially soon after a pour? I noticed the strong alcohol scent, too, but I gave it a little bit and took an insane amount of sips before writing this. Give it some time to air out a little — it's almost half alcohol. I had the same experience with Bulleit and Wild Turkey for crying out loud before figuring out I needed to let the vapor air out. MY TASTING NOTE: A rough bottom shelf bourbon, Ezra Brooks is a diamond in the rough. Once it's aired off, it's kind of sweet on the nose. I drank it neat out of a brandy glass and swirled it a ton over about 30 minutes to an hour. It takes a while, so be patient. Plenty of spicy vanilla and caramel on the palate. Medium length sweet toasted corn, oaky and peppery finish. Each sip made my upper lip very tingly, but it wasn't bad. I give it a 3.5/5 because it DOES take a while to air out when Wild Turkey 101 is enjoyable the entire time, but I will say that it goes quite well in mixed drinks. I tried it with a bourbon, lemon, and tonic (BLT) and — wouldn't you know — I don't like tonic but this was a damn good drink. Confident that this will be my go-to mixer instead of Evan Williams from now on.

The initial nose is unpleasant. Smells thin and a touch like nail polish remover. After sitting out for a minute, it opens up a bit and there are subtle hints of caramel and toffee but still in a thin way. Third try reminded me a lot of Scotch with a little peat and salinity. Flavor initially reminded me of burnt wood (but in an unpleasant way) or toothpaste. After a while, it sweetened a touch, but the mouthfeel is quick and it's somewhat all-around watery for 90-proof. After a while, I am noticing more and more that it drinks a bit like young, cheap scotch, with none of the character of corn or sweetness that I am used to getting from Bourbon. For the price, an interesting pour, but definitely not a good one.