PBMichiganWolverine
Balcones Blue Corn Bourbon Whisky Finished in Wine Casks
Bourbon — USA
Reviewed
March 14, 2023 (edited March 29, 2023)
Nothing says “I’m a redneck” more than having whiskey from styrofoam cups, sitting in a wife beater T-shirt and gym shorts. That is what I’m resorting to while on a business trip this week., sitting in my hotel room. Fortunately, @soonershrink hooked me up with several samples that came just in time for me to bring over here. I was actually afraid the nazis at EWR TSA security would confiscate all 5 of my samples …and I was ready to pound them down all at once , should it come to that. But fortunately, it met the less than 3 ounce each requirement.
So, I’m generally a huge fan of Balcones. But for some reason, this one just didn’t work for me. I got muddled flavors and a harsh bite, as if the red wine was used to cover up the youth. I know I’m the outlier, but this one was one of the few times I didn’t like Balcones. The start of the palette shines with red berries and a sweet oak flavor. But it suddenly turns harsh. I added some water, but I found it got even harsher.
Anyway, not every product can be a home run for all. Regardless, was thankful to try it. Thanks @soonershrink for providing a few samples to keep me company here during business travels
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Light it on fire and you've got napalm. I could see that being a little harsh.
Under my comment meaning - unstated assumption and/or intuition.
Yeah, that's in there under my comment - gut feeling on 60% makes me wonder. Would need to try it with something familiar to know, but just have to wonder.
@skillerified wondering if that styrofoam did it…maybe the 60% abv reacts with styrofoam to change the flavor?
I also love this one, but I can see where it walks a certain line and could land harsh for some. I also cannot imagine drinking this from styrofoam - can it even hold it without melting? I like to experiment with the glassware just because I like it. I think there is a difference between an open rocks glass and a Glencairn, or even the Neat glasses (which do enhance the nose, but are impossible to drink from), but that difference is like 5-10% at best, usually on the smaller side. Good whiskey is good no matter what you drink it from. But maybe that statement gets stretched when you start talking styrofoam. I don't know. Haven't tried that one.
@pkingmartin yeah, I think we’ve mostly been parallel , but this variance is what makes things fun. Adds to the diversity.
@PBMichiganWolverine Dang, I’m surprised that this one turned out to be a dud for you as we’re usually rather close in our ratings, but we’re all going to vary from time to time either higher or lower than others and I think that’s what makes reviews interesting to read different notes and perspectives. Here’s hoping your next dram punches higher than this one.