Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon

Barrel #2026 - Aged 9 years Nose - (w/o water) Dark vanilla caramel, oaky cinnamon, oaky vanilla cola, surprisingly little burn for proof (w/ water) Dark toffee, skin-on almonds, oaky cinnamon, dark leather Taste - (w/o water) Oaky vanilla cola/caramel, cinnamon heat, hint of cherry & cinnamon red hots (w/ water) Brings out more drying oaky vanilla, caramel, light cinnamon, hint of sweet cherry candies Finish - (w/o water) Lingering cinnamon heat, sweet fruity caramel sweet, vanilla caramels, light drying oak (w/ water) Lingering cherry vanilla, cinnamon heat, more drying somehow Score - 83/100 Final Thoughts - This drank surprisingly easy for the proof w/o water. The addition of water in this one seemed to help a tiny bit on the palate & opened up a tiny bit more fruity sweet. I have mixed feelings about this one, it drinks quite easy for the proof, but has a pretty "standard" nose, palate, finish. Nothing off-putting so that's a plus, but at the same time, nothing that sets it that far apart from other bourbons. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - No Would I buy a bottle? - Maybe since there are single barrel variants?

Tasted at Smooth Ambler Distillery and purchased bottle 91/100

6/22/18 Smooth Ambler Distillery Gift Shop, $65, 12 Year, 49.3 ABV