I.W. Harper Straight Bourbon

Ordered a bottle off Caskers as I haven't seen this locally. I had high hopes and really wanted this to wow me and it just never did. I consider it a good bourbon but not a great one. I paid $60 for this one and can say I'm one and done. If you can get it for $30 do it. I'd probably rank it in the high 80's. Like an 88 but not a 94 like Distiller has it. Tomato/Tomatoes.

I have to concur with the "too sweet" sentiments here. This "jelly belly" of a whiskey, while certainly palatable, is too sweet and has too minimal of a finish. The proof is low enough that I feel watering it down more than a few drops would wash away the few remnants of structure and balance I can detect. I've tried to stay on board with Diageo despite their high priced Orphans and other gimmicks. This stuff makes me question whether that is wise. If the price were under 20 I'd say this is a fair deal. At $30-35 there are far better options in almost every US market. You're much better off with a liter of Weller 12 or Forester Signature 100 proof than this. Save yourself the money & excessive sweetness!

Wish-listed on Monday, my local shop got it on Wednesday. Such great timing, and I am very pleased with this bourbon. The usual oaky-vanilla, but with a hint of simple syrup. Toasted marshmallow on the nose turns into buttered popcorn on the palette (I'm obviously talking Jelly Belly here).