TINCUP Fourteener Longs Peak (Release No. 1)

This is a bourbon I was actually excited to try, its been a while since I could say that. What we have here is 14 yr age statement MGP juice wrapped in a Colorado blanket for $60-65. That's a lot of good news for the price range nowadays. Only 84 proof so don't expect a flavor punch to the head but I think that is just fine for what you do get. Nose is deep and sophisticated with rich marshmallow creme and dense fragrant applewood. Ethanol is nowhere to be found making it easy to inhale. In the background lurks some scotch tape and fleeting tobacco leaf. Palate is soft and warm. Heavy sweet oak alongside bullseye caramels and some melted butter. Its not super complex but has heavy flavor saturation and baby butt smooth. Adding a water drop or two opens things up a bit but still solid neat. Finish pours on the barrel tannins but doesn't go bitter deftly walking the over-oaked line. Lingering raw vanilla sweetness and flash of coconut milk add balance. This is a well executed seasoned bourbon for someone that does not demand high proof excitement and is an overall great value. I generally prefer the bombastic style of higher proof whiskey but this is good stuff.......88/100.... not quite A level but I'm betting many will enjoy this smooth operator more than myself

Very nose forward whiskey with fresh cut wood (in particular, an aspen tree) and honey. Flavor is of caramel apple and loose leaf tobacco. Starts strong but soothes out on the end. I like the uniqueness of this being Coloradan and the 14er aspect. I do wish it got to be in the barrel a little longer, theres some upfront flavors that i think need to mellow that would make this whiskey really great.

Honey and rye bread on the nose, not much else. Tongue is smooth and forgiving, the age doing its thing. I get mellow apple and…and…i feel like there’s gotta be more going on. Maybe some hay? I’ll return to it later but this one seems to be a letdown.