This is in the port-finish/other-finish division of my finished bourbon bracket. Quick recap of the sherry-finished blind taste tests so far: Joseph Magnus vs Noble Oak: Joseph Magnus won. Wild Turkey Revival vs Rabbit Hole: WT Revival won. Joseph Magnus vs WT Revival: WT Revival won. This next round is the two that inspired this whole event: Isaac Bowman vs Angel’s Envy. After that is Amador Double Barrel vs Jefferson’s Grand Selection, followed by Jefferson’s old rum cask vs Beer Barrel Bourbon. Did I mention that this is for science? So off the bat... I like both of these whiskies. This was the most effective blind taste test to date. I wasn’t 100% sure which was which until I flipped over the cup. I was correct, but it was close. I came in with a believed preference toward Isaac Bowman, and Angel’s Envy lost here. The nose: Never gotten this before, but next to Isaac Bowman, this nose is yeasty with hints of banana, akin to Jack or Woodford. The body: Very smooth compared to IB. I get oak and sugar with a very soft cherry flavor. It’s subtle but it’s there. I think the Bowman brings it out more, back to back. The finish: There’s a syrupy sweet mouth feel that I don’t remember. Some oak and leather in there too. I’m sure that back to back with a standard bourbon, this would be a huge departure, but it’s limited port influence when compared to Isaac Bowman makes this the diet version. It’s good, it’s smoother, and it’s expertly made, but I can’t imagine ever reaching for this when I wanted the port-finish flavor now that I know what Isaac Bowman has to offer.