So, I picked up a fresh batch of Smooth Ambler’s core range bottles while visiting my dad in West Virginia a couple of weeks ago. I’ve had multiple bottles of Contradiction before and I really enjoy it as a mixer. This latest batch (#126) is from the new recipe where they’ve decided to reduce the ABV from 50 to 46%. Stretching the product, I suppose. The cute Smooth Ambler bartender tried to tell me they spoke with fans and industry experts that asked for the reduction in ABV to make smoother cocktails. I rolled my eyes, too... Anyway, I still love this stuff. It’s a beautiful, shiny copper in the taster and you’ll get some watery legs and big droplets if you like spinning your whiskey like I do. The nose is vanilla and fresh cut oak with light rye and dill spice hiding in the background. The palate follows suit, but is definitely more wood heavy. The vanilla breaks up any harshness you might find and there are sticky and peppery rye notes holding everything together. The mouthfeel is pretty rich and slightly oily, but I definitely notice a reduction in heat from the aforementioned 50% ABV version. The finish is still long and spicy, which is what makes this blend so good IMHO. The lingering heat and wood notes close out a very good neat drinking experience, while providing some great bite when mixing my bourbon and coke cocktails. Overall, I can’t say I’m thrilled over the reduction in ABV (esp without a reduction in bottle price), but you really wont notice it in your favorite cocktail and if the cute bartender is correct- not many people drink this one neat, so there’s not a reason to worry about losing customers over cutting the ABV. It’s still a solid 3.5-3.75 star dram for me, mixer or straight out of the bottle WV-style! Pick up a bottle if you see it locally for less than $45. Cheers.