I.W. Harper 15 Year Bourbon

Just a great pour. Don’t know much about the making of this, but I’d guess there’s an ample amount of wheat in the bill. Caramel, cinnamon, leather and mild sweetness. Fairly one-dimensional, but it’s a decent flaw as it is a good dimension. Just doesn’t change much front to back.

Nose is predominant with oak - vanilla, raisins, Christmas fruitcake in the background. The palate is smooth with a powdered sugar sweetness, barrel char and dried fruits. The body is disappointingly light and I can only imagine a barrel proof version. There is still a finish of charred oak and sun dried tobacco. For the price I wish the proof was higher. I miss the thicker body of da Noah’s Mill (now NAS but previously 15y age statement). Loses a half star for value but still a fine bourbon. I suppose the smooth light finish broaden its appeal but if IW Harper is listening I’d gladly give $125 for a barrel strength rendition.