Two Stars Bourbon

Bought this at a Total Wine in Lexington, KY. Didn’t have a lot of time to research but the employees said it was rated high despite the name on the bottle. I did look at some reviews before I tasted it and thought maybe I made a mistake. I didn’t expect much. I was pleasantly surprised when I tried it. Classic bourbon notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel. Also some spicy cinnamon and clove. Need to drink it straight. I tried a glass with an ice cube and all flavors are muted. I give it a 3/5. There is a little metallic/bitterness on the finish. Third glass I added a couple drops of orange bitters, worked well. I know there are diamonds in the rough but most times a $20 dollar bourbon tastes like a $20 bourbon.

Mini bottle tasting series. Light orange-straw color, medium legs in the glass. Light cereal and yeast bread on the nose, with a sweet hint. Thin grain and burnt sugar flavors followed by explosive ethanol. Odd chemical taste and dry feel in the mouth grows through the finish that leaves me with real heartburn. Maybe that's the mole enchiladas I had for dinner last night, but... I don't think so. Definitely NOT two stars. Do yourself a favor--enjoy the mole and skip this.

Nose of white bread, some light wood, vanilla and cinnamon; faint pumpkin pie and brandy. Not much happening as far as the taste; some light caramel and spice with a hint of vanilla. Lingering spiced finish. Two Stars is an appropriate name. I wouldn’t be keen on a hotel, restaurant, etc. that gets two stars, and this fits the bill. Bonus points for me (not the whiskey) for going with the mini.