Review #061 Type: bourbon whisky Proof: 43% Comments: NAS, made with unprocessed spring water from the Adirondack mountains Tasted after: first up Appearance (no score): Tawny color. Swirling reveals a thick line sticking to the side of the glass, legs start forming quickly. Nose: 14/20 Although this is a bourbon, the first thing I notice on the nose is the sent of rye, which (aside from the name) leads me to guess there’s a decent amount was used in the mash bill. It’s also sweet, with notes of apples, dates, and gingerbread. Palate: 28/40 Orange rind, almonds, baking spices, and a hint of vanilla. It’s a bit hotter than I would have expected given the ABV but light overall, none of the flavors really pop. Finish: 26/40 Medium-short finish. The rye I picked up on the nose really makes itself known here, accompanied by dry oak tannins and a hint of orange marmalade before ending on a mildly bitter note. With Water: A couple drops of water does wonders. It adds a buttery shortbread note on the nose. On the palate, it dulls the heat a bit and brings out some sugary pastry notes. That sweet and tangy orange marmalade on the finish is also amplified a bit, and these two really tie in very nicely together. Total: 68/100 Final thoughts: This is the first high-rye bourbon I’ve tried. It’s definitely drinkable, especially with a couple drops of water, but probably makes a better cocktail than a neat sipper. Price: gift Would recommend: no Would buy: no Scoring Legend: 96-100: The perfect dram, absolutely exceptional, nectar of the gods, I will savor this bottle and make it last, 5 stars. 90-95: Near perfect, there is something truly special about this whisky, 4.75 stars. 85-89: Very good to amazing, almost the complete product, 4.5 stars. 80-84: Quite good, very enjoyable to drink, but doesn’t wow me, 4.25 stars. 75-79: Good, enjoyable but ultimately flawed, unlikely to purchase again, 4 stars. 70-74: A solid dram, but wouldn't go out of my way to get it, 3.75 stars. 55-69: Drinkable, 3.5-2.75 stars. Below 55: Suitable for cooking or direct contribution to the kitchen sink drain, 2.5 stars or less.