James E. Pepper 1776 Straight Bourbon (100 Proof) Beige Label

After my excellent experience with the JP rye I was on the lookout for this bourbon. Found last lonely bottle on the shelf. Very high rye% at 39 and 100 pf non chill filtered. Poured neat, a swirl gives a nice glasscoat. Noses spicy nutty caramel, seasoned wood, some birch beer notes, maple syrup, dusty rye and a bit of sting to the nostrils( fades at rest). Palate is heavy smack of smoky dark caramel oak, rye spice heat, cocoa powder, melting butterscotch and some glove leather. Its a little hot at 100pf and tastes young with flavors not fully developed. Finish is lengthy charred oak with butterscotch and rye spice drying slowly. The high rye kicks up the spice and the 100pf adds in making an overall too hot impression. Needs more maturation for depth and roundness.............76/100...........Belle Meade is similar profile and superior imo

Nose: sweet like a candy for me, some spice Palate: bites with pungent spiciness, sweet Finish: sweet, spicy, short

Rich flavor and incredibly smooth.