I'm normally pretty in tune with the reviews on this site and the critical community, sometimes varying in ways that make sense given my distinct flavor preferences (Islay scotches are always going to get high marks in my book, compared to the general consensus). But every once in a while I encounter a whiskey that just completely mystifies me. In some cases, I can't figure out why it's rated so low compared to my assessment (such as Old Forester 1920 on this site, just to give one example). At other times, I can't figure out why people like a whiskey that much after I've tried it (sorry, Octomore line!). Old Forester Birthday falls in the latter camp for me. It's nearly universally praised, so I was excited to try a tasting flight of the 2015-2016-2017 editions. I left thinking, are we really all talking about the same bourbon? The distillery describes this bourbon as having "robust" or extreme oakiness thanks to its aging, and it's right on with that description -- although it ends up not being a good thing in my assessment. On the nose I immediately detect that resinous, bitter oak characteristic of heavily woody (or overly woody) bourbons, but balanced with a concentrated vanilla and butterscotch combination. Occasionally, some burnt brown sugar comes to the forefront. Unfortunately, the rest of the experience doesn’t come close to the aroma. The overpowering oak has neutralized a lot of the sweet, dessert flavors I associate with rich, well-aged bourbons. The right tasting note is almost “splinters” — it’s just a rough, heavy dose of oak that’s not in balance with the weaker, simple syrup-esque sweetness that struggles to make itself heard. On top of that, there was a raw rye flavor that I wasn’t loving without any accompanying fruit or caramel. That oakiness is the standout characteristic of the relatively quick finish as well, although I did enjoy some flavors reminiscent of cherry at the end. Sorry, I just am not seeing why this is so highly rated. I'd honestly rather drink Devil's Cut, which is woody as hell but also a quarter or less of the price.