Sidewinder 4.2

This whisky comes from Taos, NM, and is a blend of bourbon and rye. The Web site says it's aged with Ponderosa pine bark and pecan wood, which I think means that they put that into the barrel, though I could be wrong.. The label on my bottle is Sidwinder, but due to another distillery disputing that, it's going to change to Ponderosa (the distillery is the Ponderosa Whiskey Company). It's 80 proof, there's no age statement, a fifth cost me $25.99 at Total Wine, and in the glass it's a wheat color. NOSE: The first and dominant note is custard. It's been years since I had any custard, but that note is definite. Underneath the custard I found the aroma of cookies that a co-worker makes using Ricotta cheese (they don't smell or taste like cheese, and this juice doesn't), a hint of the piney woods, and a little honey. MOUTHFEEL: Thin but slightly creamy. TASTE: Brown sugar, a little oak on the edges of my tongue, very watered down honey, and some cinnamon coming in as I got further into the glass. FINISH: A definite eucalyptus cough drop note, and as I neared the bottom of the glass a flash of pecan that vanished almost as soon as it appeared on the tongue. The finish is medium in length. SUMMARY: This whisky has enormous potential. The nose is incredible, one I've never encountered in any other whisky, and perhaps the most attractive I've ever come across. If the palate followed suit this could easily be my favorite whisky. Alas, the palate just doesn't measure up to the promise of the nose. I suspect that at a higher proof - 100, say, though even higher would suit me - this would be a superb whisky. RATING: On my hick scale I rate it Okay, which is the fourth from the bottom of my eight level scale. This is equal to 2.5 stars, 50/100, or 5/10.

Spicy like a Rye on the finish. Lots of barrel flavor. Smooth, good chewable mouth feel.

This is a smooth and distinct distillation. The taste of the ponderosa bark is amazing. I was doubtful at first but I am in love. Smooth and rich taste makes you want more. Most new mexico whiskeys I've had suck but this is one of my new favorites.