Wathen's Single Barrel Bourbon

A very easy sipper. Neat in a glencairn gives me vanilla, woodiness, with a very nutty undertone and finish. Peanuts and the occasional banana will linger. Was recommended this by a bartender when they ran out of Willett pot still. Not a replacement, but definitely added a bottle to my bar after trying.

Very easy to drink but has a bit of a bite.

smooth, very easy to drink with a little kick.

I was looking to try another ~$30 small batch but spotted this, and an ABC employee said they just got it in that day. I couldn't exactly remember reviews of this, but I knew it was not a bourbon we normally see in North Carolina so I impulsively picked it up due to the small quantity available. I usually wait to do reviews until I'm almost finished with the bottle but I think my opinion is settled after a few days. This is unlike a lot of bourbons I've had recently. It hits you hard with floral oak notes, smelling like it is over 100 proof. It initially is light on the palate but then a strong oak and nut flavor takes over. The finish however lingers with a more spicy dessert flavor mixed with nuts and cloves. To me this is floral, oak, and nutty. It lacks sweetness that many other bourbons have, which could be due to age since the mash bill is similar to many big bourbons I've had recently. If you like more rye/malt influence in your bourbon you may like this a lot. A unique bourbon that is a good change of pace, but not something that I'd consider a good daily sipper. By the way, adding a little water only dulled the nose and flavor. And I really like the bottle design. It pours easily with no dribbling. And the boxy shape has dimples on the side making it comfortable to grab. More bottles should include dimples. Barrel information - #4696 and bottled on 05-06-19. I wish they included the cask date, I'm confident it is under 6 years given the taste.