Henry McKenna Straight Bourbon

I was at a local whiskey tasting event and near the end of the evening, I found myself at the Heaven Hill kiosk. This Henry McKenna was one of the samples. We had some good discussions about the whiskey lineup they were providing and in talking about this pour I mentioned that this is not sold in our area, which they did acknowledge to be true. So, before close, they handed me the 2/3 full bottle of this and Rittenhouse for me to take home. So now I can properly take my time and truly taste (amongst a bunch of other different goodies.) The mash I’ll is comprised of 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley all aged for about years. Caramel color which brings with it a nose that is very straight forward sweetness: caramel, corn, vanilla. A damp, mustiness is mixed in with the sweetness; like a old barn on a fall, damp day. Cinnamon notes are lightly apparent. Acetone seeps through as you draw in the aromas. The body is extremely thin. What is delivered is caramel, vanilla and corn. Cinnamon spice starts to appear towards and into the finish. Not much in flavor variety. The finish is oak and spice, vanilla and caramel all lasting for a medium length. This is about as straightforward as a bourbon goes. Affordable as I see it retails for under $20 (more in the $15 range). Sips extremely easy. Simple as simple gets. This is probably geared for mixing than sipping. Easy, simple, enjoyable, approachable. [82/100][Tasted: 3/23/19]

smooth up front, peaty on the back

Lots of dusty grain on the nose. Heat on the finish. An inordinate amount of heat for the Proof.

By Heaven Hill. An 80 proof, younger version of Evan Williams. Solid, inexpensive bourbon.

Dang tasty.

Tastes young and with a bit of bite... sort of hints of popcorn and pears... finish is a long burn with a vanilla trace... for. the price it is surprisingly... adequate.