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Posted: 2/20/2017 5:53:10 PM EDT
So let's get a review thread started. Feel free to post any review here for your favorite brown water. Lets start with a general guide on how to review whiskey.

First:
Tell us the general setting/details of what was going on when you did the review. Was it a bar with a bottle that had been open for an unknown amount of time? Was it your fourth drink of the night? How did you have it? What type of glass, how long had it been sitting, neat/ice/water?

Second:
Here, go ahead and start into the review details, or maybe give us your general opinion up front.

Third:
Color. What does it look like? Is it golden, deep red, dark brown? Help the people reading the review get into the experience.

Fourth:
Nose. This one is where things start to vary drastically from one person to another. Try and really pick up what your smelling. The best way to do this with spirits is to bring your nose into the glass and breath in through your mouth. This will let you pick up the subtleties without the ethanol overwhelming your nose. This is usually best done after letting it sit for a few minutes.

Fifth:
Taste/palate. We aren't all going to agree on these. Someone may really enjoy something that you hate. The best way to find stuff you may like though, is to try and find someone that enjoys some of the same stuff you do, and look for their other reviews. That being said, try and write out the full taste. What did you taste at first, what about after adding a little water or ice? Anything that it reminds you of? Did the palate match the things you smelled? Then make sure you include the feel of it. Was it full bodied? Did it taste a little thin? Was it oily?

Sixth:
Finish/aftertaste. What was it like after you swallowed it? Some whiskies can leave a lingering mint/dill flavor, other ones have a signature note that seems consistent across all of their products. The Beam peanut funk is a great example of this.

The wrap up:
Give us a score. Let us know what scale you are grading it on, and if price factors into your decision. Maybe sum it up, or tell us if you would buy it again, toss it, or leave it as something you would only drink at a bar or friends house.
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 6:41:42 PM EDT
[#1]
If you like bourbon, this a great website.  Take some time and read some reviews. Some of these guys do a wonderful job of describing the bourbon experience. Start out by reading the reviews of bourbons that you know you like, then find a reviewer or two that seem to have similar tastes to your own. If you read the reviews from those reviewers you can often find bourbons that you can try that you might not otherwise have found.  

Bourbonenthusiast.com
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 7:44:14 PM EDT
[#2]
It's fun to read the expert's reviews, but I always really enjoy just reading amateur reviews. The more experienced some people get, the more it seems like they are just trying to use as many big words and obscure references as they can.
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 9:18:30 PM EDT
[#3]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
It's fun to read the expert's reviews, but I always really enjoy just reading amateur reviews. The more experienced some people get, the more it seems like they are just trying to use as many big words and obscure references as they can.
View Quote


Well put! I'm a newbie into the world of bourbon, but have quickly become an enthusiast and collector. I have brought my wife along for the journey, and it's really fun sharing feedback and opinions. I'll be sharing my reviews and learning experience soon as we just finished moving into our new house in Knoxville.

Current open bottles:

Buffalo Trace
Eagle Rare 10yr
Blantons
Sazerac Rye
Dickel no.12
Pilar (rum)
Kirk and Sweeney 23yr (rum
Appleton Estates 21yr (rum)

All of these were purchased to establish a baseline for me. I have the intention of opening everything, but am familiarizing myself with tastes and notes as the more I drink each, the more they develope and the full character of each opens up and fully reveals itself. It's amazing how your senses develope and progress!

In the meantime, here is a photo of the bourbons and rums I've collected over the past month. I have sampled many, but not all, and have purchased most by review characteristics that I've found my palate prefers.
Attachment Attached File
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 9:22:09 PM EDT
[#4]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Well put! I'm a newbie into the world of bourbon, but have quickly become an enthusiast and collector. I have brought my wife along for the journey, and it's really fun sharing feedback and opinions. I'll be sharing my reviews and learning experience soon as we just finished moving into our new house in Knoxville.

Current open bottles:

Buffalo Trace
Eagle Rare 10yr
Blantons
Sazerac Rye
Dickel no.12
Pilar (rum)
Kirk and Sweeney 23yr (rum
Appleton Estates 21yr (rum)

All of these were purchased to establish a baseline for me. I have the intention of opening everything, but and familiarizing myself with tastes and notes, as the more I drink each, the more they develope, and the full character of each opens up and fully reveals itself. It's amazing how your senses develope and progress!

In the meantime, here is a photo of the bourbons and rums I've collected over the past month. I have sampled many, but not all, and have purchased most by review characteristics that I've found my palate prefers.
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/328927/IMG-9043-150760.JPG
View Quote


Throw that picture up in the bottle porn thread. You have me jealous with that WLW on the top shelf and the rock hill hanging out in the center!
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 9:34:26 PM EDT
[#5]
Here goes nothing. My first official bourbon review.



This is a bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel I've had in the cabinet for a few years. It was put in oak in 1997 and bottled in 2007.  It is 86.6 proof.

Color. The color is a light caramel with warm reddish tint.

Body. The body is light for a 10 year old. If you roll it in the glass, it leaves the sides of the glass quickly. The mouth feel is very light.

Nose. The nose is mostly corn with a bit of oak and leather. Also very light for a 10 year old.  

Taste.  The taste is fairly simple and light. There is corn, a hint of fruit and a little oak. Very mild alcohol burn, which you'd expect at 86 proof. Just a bit of vanilla.  

Finish. Very mild finish with a little oak/old leather left on the back end.

Overall.  A simple bourbon with no really great features but no real faults either. The most important thing to remember is that this usually less than $30.00 a bottle. Probably a good bottle to have around if you have friends that like something smooth and simple.
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 9:42:26 PM EDT
[#6]
To help out those that are curious about what i meant when I said "What type of glass" the standards right now are as follows.

1.) The Glencairn glass. These came about 5-7 years ago and took the scene by storm. They have become a standard for tasting for everything from a $10 bottle bourbon to $1000 a glass 50 year old single malts. They are fantastic for focusing the nose on the whisky and really letting you enjoy the full experience. Some of the cons are that some people find they have to tilt their head back to drink and that they are uncomfortable in the hand. They also are generally considered too small for ice, and are meant to only hold 2oz of whiskey and allow room for the nose to build




2.) The Norlan Glass. These came out last year as a response to some of the negatives to the Glencairn glasses. While keeping the glencairn type shape inside, they have added a second layer to the glass to make it more comfortable in the hand and prevent you from having to tilt your head back to sip the whiskey. The opening is still a little small to add ice, but on the inside they have added fins that they claim "disrupt the whiskey and allow quicker oxidation". Oxidation, or letting the whiskey air out, can remove some of the ethanol and allow the drinker to pick out more in the whiskey.



3.) Stemmed Tulip glasses, or the larger bulb glasses were the standard used for most of the last 100 years. Essentially thing glass small mouth versions of wine glasses, these were considered superior for tasting to standard tumblers due to the focusing of the nose. Many of also have small lids available to prevent oxidation and allow the reviewer to focus the nose.



4.) The rocks glass/ low ball/ old fashioned/ tumbler/ cocktail glass.....etc. This was the american standard. When you thought of someone having a glass of whiskey this was the glass. These are poor for focusing the nose, but are hard to beat for really enjoying the whiskey. Good weight in the hand, a large mouth for serving however you like, and generally used for the classic cocktails such as manhattan or old fashioned. They come in just about every material type and can range from .50 all the way up into the hundreds for custom crystal versions.



5.) Modified rocks/non standard. These are basically "everything else". Some are modified wide mouth rocks glasses, others are bizarre shapes and angles, such as the "Blade runner" glasses. They are usually sold with decanters or as a set, and can be very pricey. Many will also be like the rocks glass in that they do not focus the nose the way other "tasting" glasses do.

Link Posted: 2/20/2017 9:43:57 PM EDT
[#7]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Here goes nothing. My first official bourbon review.

https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/67156/IMG-0515-150743.jpg

This is a bottle of Evan Williams Single Barrel I've had in the cabinet for a few years. It was put in oak in 1997 and bottled in 2007.  It is 86.6 proof.

Color. The color is a light caramel with warm reddish tint.

Body. The body is light for a 10 year old. If you roll it in the glass, it leaves the sides of the glass quickly. The mouth feel is very light.

Nose. The nose is mostly corn with a bit of oak and leather. Also very light for a 10 year old.  

Taste.  The taste is fairly simple and light. There is corn, a hint of fruit and a little oak. Very mild alcohol burn, which you'd expect at 86 proof. Just a bit of vanilla.  

Finish. Very mild finish with a little oak/old leather left on the back end.

Overall.  A simple bourbon with no really great features but no real faults either. The most important thing to remember is that this usually less than $30.00 a bottle. Probably a good bottle to have around if you have friends that like something smooth and simple.
View Quote


Awesome! Thank you for sharing with us. The newer ones keep getting younger, so enjoy that one while you can!
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 10:48:26 PM EDT
[#8]


Well, the fiancee is visiting her brother who I cannot stand.  So, Lonnie-Dog and I are batching it for two more days.  I have a nice evening planned as you can see.  The Auchentoshan Three Wood is on a recommendation from a sommelier friend.  He knows I am not a fan of sherry bomb scotches, so he recommended this as it is matured in bourbon and sherry casks.  I was suckered in by the "try something other than your peat monsters."  

It's a NAS (No Age Statement) bottling, so I cannot tell you the age.  Plus, I rarely drink Lowland malts, so this is an one-off for me.

Color. The color is a light caramel with warm reddish tint. It either has a long time in the Pedro Ximenez casks, or it may have a bit of color added.  

Body. It is rather light despite the color.  You would expect it to be smokier given the bourbon casking, but from reading up on the distillery, it is non-peated.  It tastes lighter than its color would indicate.  It makes me wonder if any coloring was added.

Nose. The nose has a hint of dried orange rinds and floral.  Honeysuckle?  Green apples?

Taste. It has a very light taste with a nice bite without water.  A splash of water really dilutes it.  I may have added a little too much water.  The taste is very light and enjoyable.  It has a sweet taste almost like creme brûlée.  

Finish. The finish has a little smokey taste but not a peaty taste.  Going back to the creme brûlée analogy, it finishes with that burnt taste that you sometimes get on the top of the creme brûlée.  Maybe a caramel finish.  I am not very good at describing what I am tasting.

Overall. Would I drink it again? Definitely.  It is different from what I normally drink (Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg), but it has a interesting taste.  Almost like an after dessert malt.  I think this one is best saved for a whisky to serve with something sweet and little to no water added.  Tip, it works with Walkers Shortbread cookies.

But again, this is my first review, and I may well have no clue.  

Now, with the Nightcap, a little bit of the Laphroaig Lore.  A peaty malt with a nice bowl before bed are one of life's little pleasures.
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 10:53:01 PM EDT
[#9]



The dram: Lagavulin 2015 distiller's edition
The setting: Sitting at home after a very long weekend, toasting to the end of a good trip. Served neat as a heavy pour in a norlan glass, and left to air for about 15 minutes. The bottle has been open for the better part of a year.

Color: Like most Lagavulins it has a deep cherry color to it (not just saying that because the cherry table it's sitting on). The distiller's has a deeper red to it than the standard bottling.

Nose: Salt and peat hit you first thing. Raisins and leather trail behind with a clear sweetness persisting through the whole experience.

Taste/palate: Not as sweet as older distiller's edition. The sherry from the Pedro Ximenez cask sits at the tip of the tongue as cinnamon and sugar. Then the classic Islay peat takes over. It has more "ash" to the peat than other's and much less iodine. Unlike the 16 year the salt/brine seems more subdued. It has the typical heaviness of Lagavulin, but lacks some of the smoke.

Finish: After the peat breaks up a lingering smoked meats/tobacco lingers at the back of the tongue with just a hint of citrus.

Score: 82/100

The Lagavulin distiller's edition is a fantastic dram, but I don't know if I would consider it worth the extra price over the standard. I do enjoy the new variants better than the older ones, with the sherry overpowering some older vintages. I will likely always keep a bottle of this in my bar to change things up from my regular pour, but if you aren't a huge fan of peat then you should probably skip this one.
Link Posted: 2/20/2017 10:55:34 PM EDT
[#10]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
http://i.imgur.com/PPrQOsY.jpg

Well, the fiancee is visiting her brother who I cannot stand.  So, Lonnie-Dog and I are batching it for two more days.  I have a nice evening planned as you can see.  The Auchentoshan Three Wood is on a recommendation from a sommelier friend.  He knows I am not a fan of sherry bomb scotches, so he recommended this as it is matured in bourbon and sherry casks.  I was suckered in by the "try something other than your peat monsters."  

It's a NAS (No Age Statement) bottling, so I cannot tell you the age.  Plus, I rarely drink Lowland malts, so this is an one-off for me.

Color. The color is a light caramel with warm reddish tint. It either has a long time in the Pedro Ximenez casks, or it may have a bit of color added.  

Body. It is rather light despite the color.  You would expect it to be smokier given the bourbon casking, but from reading up on the distillery, it is non-peated.  It tastes lighter than its color would indicate.  It makes me wonder if any coloring was added.

Nose. The nose has a hint of dried orange rinds and floral.  Honeysuckle?  Green apples?

Taste. It has a very light taste with a nice bite without water.  A splash of water really dilutes it.  I may have added a little too much water.  The taste is very light and enjoyable.  It has a sweet taste almost like creme brûlée.  

Finish. The finish has a little smokey taste but not a peaty taste.  Going back to the creme brûlée analogy, it finishes with that burnt taste that you sometimes get on the top of the creme brûlée.  Maybe a caramel finish.  I am not very good at describing what I am tasting.

Overall. Would I drink it again? Definitely.  It is different from what I normally drink (Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg), but it has a interesting taste.  Almost like an after dessert malt.  I think this one is best saved for a whisky to serve with something sweet and little to no water added.  Tip, it works with Walkers Shortbread cookies.

But again, this is my first review, and I may well have no clue.  

Now, with the Nightcap, a little bit of the Laphroaig Lore.  A peaty malt with a nice bowl before bed are one of life's little pleasures.
View Quote


Sounds like a perfect way to spend a night. The three wood has always been a late night dram to me, all by itself. Although I have enjoyed it a few times with a nice Icelandic dark chocolate bar.
Link Posted: 2/21/2017 8:37:22 PM EDT
[#11]
Hello everyone,

I registered for an account to participate in your new forum, congratulations on getting it going. I have lurked GD for years, but I thought I would jump in here, as it is relevant to my interests.

I have always had some single malt scotch in the cabinet, usually Glenlivet12, and have become interested in expanding my single malt experience. Watched a bunch of reviews and bought a few bottles over the last six months, went with what you guys would probably consider basics within their region, Glenmorangie Original, Highland Park12, Talisker10, and Caol Ila12. Also a Glen Grant12 currently unopened until I finish the Genlivet12.

I like all of them, enjoying the different flavors, although my nose isn't sophisticated enough to pick up the subtle differences yet, maybe over time that will improve.

I was recently offered a dram of the Auchentashan 3 wood that LSU Tiger Fan reviewed and completely agree with his description, it was very nice. Not sure what to pick up next, thinking maybe an Ardbeg10, but just watched a review of the Laddie10 that sounds good if I can find it.

Happy to be here, suggestions welcome.
Link Posted: 2/21/2017 8:47:16 PM EDT
[#12]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Hello everyone,

I registered for an account to participate in your new forum, congratulations on getting it going. I have lurked GD for years, but I thought I would jump in here, as it is relevant to my interests.

I have always had some single malt scotch in the cabinet, usually Glenlivet12, and have become interested in expanding my single malt experience. Watched a bunch of reviews and bought a few bottles over the last six months, went with what you guys would probably consider basics within their region, Glenmorangie Original, Highland Park12, Talisker10, and Caol Ila12. Also a Glen Grant12 currently unopened until I finish the Genlivet12.

I like all of them, enjoying the different flavors, although my nose isn't sophisticated enough to pick up the subtle differences yet, maybe over time that will improve.

I was recently offered a dram of the Auchentashan 3 wood that LSU Tiger Fan reviewed and completely agree with his description, it was very nice. Not sure what to pick up next, thinking maybe an Ardbeg10, but just watched a review of the Laddie10 that sounds good if I can find it.

Happy to be here, suggestions welcome.
View Quote


Welcome aboard! Glad to have you, and not a bad start at all. That's a good range of single malts to have worked through. What did you like about them? Which ones were your favorite? We have a lot of experience whisky guys around here that can point you towards others you may like. I will say that the no age statement (NAS) is incredibly similar to the 10 year laddie and much more available. It is one of the few NAS out there that doesn't seem to lose something compared to the age stated versions they replaced.
Link Posted: 2/21/2017 9:11:25 PM EDT
[#13]
Thanks for the heads up on the NAS Laddie, I live dangerously close to a Total Wine store, so I will look for it.

So far, I think I am enjoying the Highland Park12 the most, it seems well balanced to me, I will probably buy their 18 year old expression when I am finished with this bottle.

I will admit that I was/am afraid to go toward the "smoke" but the Islays are becoming more appealing too. This "research" is going to take a while.
Link Posted: 2/21/2017 10:08:20 PM EDT
[#14]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Thanks for the heads up on the NAS Laddie, I live dangerously close to a Total Wine store, so I will look for it.

So far, I think I am enjoying the Highland Park12 the most, it seems well balanced to me, I will probably buy their 18 year old expression when I am finished with this bottle.

I will admit that I was/am afraid to go toward the "smoke" but the Islays are becoming more appealing too. This "research" is going to take a while.
View Quote


Of the big peaty three - Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Lagavulin - I would say that the Lagavulin 16 is the smoothest approach to the Islay malts.  I prefer the Laphroaig 10 as my go to, but you cannot go wrong with any of the three.  I also love Ardbeg Uigeadail.  But it's a "big boy pants" peaty scotch.

If you want to cover a lot of ground quickly, go to one of the UK sites like Master of Malt and grab a lot of samples.  Shipping will be a bitch, but in the long run, you can cover a lot of ground quickly.

Edit: Maybe try Kilchoman Machir Bay.  I liked my bottle.  I just haven't bought another one, but it's because most of my booze money is going to the Laphroaig folks.
Link Posted: 2/21/2017 10:55:20 PM EDT
[#15]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Thanks for the heads up on the NAS Laddie, I live dangerously close to a Total Wine store, so I will look for it.

So far, I think I am enjoying the Highland Park12 the most, it seems well balanced to me, I will probably buy their 18 year old expression when I am finished with this bottle.

I will admit that I was/am afraid to go toward the "smoke" but the Islays are becoming more appealing too. This "research" is going to take a while.
View Quote
Since you liked the balance of Highland Park 12, you might consider Springbank 10.  Give Old Pulteney 12 a try in your research too.  And if you're leaning towards Islays, Lagavulin 16 needs to be on your short list.

Welcome to the forum.
Link Posted: 2/22/2017 5:28:18 AM EDT
[#16]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Since you liked the balance of Highland Park 12, you might consider Springbank 10.  Give Old Pulteney 12 a try in your research too.  And if you're leaning towards Islays, Lagavulin 16 needs to be on your short list.

Welcome to the forum.
View Quote


I have heard good things about all of these, added to the list.

Thanks LSUTF, and wiseanhyzer, I think the Lagavulin16 was $75 at Costco last week, I'm pretty sure I saw the others at Total Wine, and were scored pretty highly.

You guys are gonna cost me some money.
Link Posted: 2/22/2017 10:19:17 AM EDT
[#17]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


I have heard good things about all of these, added to the list.

Thanks LSUTF, and wiseanhyzer, I think the Lagavulin16 was $75 at Costco last week, I'm pretty sure I saw the others at Total Wine, and were scored pretty highly.

You guys are gonna cost me some money.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Since you liked the balance of Highland Park 12, you might consider Springbank 10.  Give Old Pulteney 12 a try in your research too.  And if you're leaning towards Islays, Lagavulin 16 needs to be on your short list.

Welcome to the forum.


I have heard good things about all of these, added to the list.

Thanks LSUTF, and wiseanhyzer, I think the Lagavulin16 was $75 at Costco last week, I'm pretty sure I saw the others at Total Wine, and were scored pretty highly.

You guys are gonna cost me some money.


Forgot Old Pulteney 12.  Great choice!  Never had the Springbank.
Link Posted: 2/23/2017 5:48:28 PM EDT
[#18]
Just checking in.  Business dinner last night.  Wound up at The Chop House in Charleston, West Virginia.  Some asshole - who looks remarkably like myself - finished their Laphroaig 10.  

Telling the world how much I love Laphroaig, steak and our new subforum is a great way to spend post 7,000!!
Link Posted: 2/23/2017 5:50:05 PM EDT
[#19]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Just checking in.  Business dinner last night.  Wound up at The Chop House in Charleston, West Virginia.  Some asshole - who looks remarkably like myself - finished their Laphroaig 10.  

Telling the world how much I love Laphroaig, steak and our new subforum is a great way to spend post 7,000!!
View Quote



Link Posted: 3/5/2017 4:23:00 PM EDT
[#20]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Well put! I'm a newbie into the world of bourbon, but have quickly become an enthusiast and collector. I have brought my wife along for the journey, and it's really fun sharing feedback and opinions. I'll be sharing my reviews and learning experience soon as we just finished moving into our new house in Knoxville.

Current open bottles:

Buffalo Trace
Eagle Rare 10yr
Blantons
Sazerac Rye
Dickel no.12
Pilar (rum)
Kirk and Sweeney 23yr (rum
Appleton Estates 21yr (rum)

All of these were purchased to establish a baseline for me. I have the intention of opening everything, but am familiarizing myself with tastes and notes as the more I drink each, the more they develope and the full character of each opens up and fully reveals itself. It's amazing how your senses develope and progress!

In the meantime, here is a photo of the bourbons and rums I've collected over the past month. I have sampled many, but not all, and have purchased most by review characteristics that I've found my palate prefers.
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/328927/IMG-9043-150760.JPG
View Quote


Holy Hell. That's a months worth of just starting?
VERY NICE !
Link Posted: 3/5/2017 9:43:44 PM EDT
[#21]


Bourbon - Evan Williams Single Barrel 2007 vintage in a low ball glass

Setting - at home relaxing after a long weekend

Color - golden brown, light red tinge

Nose - There's a sweet note that I can't make out, a spice note over takes it.

Body - fairly thin, very little remains on the glass wall when swirled. Runny in the mouth

Taste - sweet comes to the front (maybe that's what the leather taste is?), followed by a slight rye spice, then a quick smokey finish.
Link Posted: 3/14/2017 3:44:49 AM EDT
[#22]
Great review! Thanks for sharing. We need to talk more people into sharing them.
Link Posted: 3/30/2017 10:39:29 PM EDT
[#23]
I'm enjoying my first cask strength, a Maker's Mark cask strength, a 2016-01 batch. It's the first batch bottled of 2016. It's a 112.2 proof, so a 56.1% bourbon, it's pretty strong. I found it right at $50.



Aroma- straight from the bottle to the rocks glass, there's a very powerful alcohol presence. After letting it breathe, it starts to smell like a bakery/pie store. Sweet fruity aroma with what I think of as apple pie spices and a little bit of vanilla. Very small oak aroma.

Body- color is similar to a dark amber honey color. It feels like it coats the mouth and has a good full body presence.

Taste- after the alcohol burn, it starts off with a small spice kick and then goes to a sweet place. Caramel, all spice, cinnamon, fruit, brown sugar, and molasses. Deeper flavor than regular MM. The finish retains some of those sweet notes then proceeds to a long smoky finish, with hints of tobacco and a trace of spice.
Link Posted: 5/1/2017 7:52:27 PM EDT
[#24]



The dram: Bird Dog 10 Year Small Batch
The setting: Sitting outback on a sunny day enjoying the breeze. Served neat in a lowball glass, and left to air for about 15 minutes. The bottle was just opened today.

Color: Auburn, not much for legs on the glass.  

Nose: Not a lot going on here. A little citrus, a very clear alcohol that normally would only show up with really young bourbons.

Taste/palate: A little spice, this is definitely a low rye. It reminds me a lot of the Wathens/Medley bourbons I've had (not in a good way). The citrus from the nose shows back up a little, but the alcohol definitely does. It's thin, and there is a clear lack of any oak that I would expect of a 10 year old bourbon. There is a slight aluminum that shows up, that I've generally found present on cheaper bourbons that use run of the mill water to dilute with.

Finish: Devoid of any real finish other than the ethanol burn left on the tongue. As someone that loves barrel proof bourbons, this is not a good thing that a 90 proof bourbon leaves me with nothing other than a slight burn.  

Score: 65/100

This is going slightly above a 60 only because I got it for $28. I think the MSRP on it is over $40, which I would recommend avoiding it for that price. The closest thing I could compare it to is benchmark, and I think I'd prefer benchmark. Oh well, it's a pretty bottle for the shelf.
Link Posted: 5/2/2017 11:22:35 AM EDT
[#25]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
I'm enjoying my first cask strength, a Maker's Mark cask strength, a 2016-01 batch. It's the first batch bottled of 2016. It's a 112.2 proof, so a 56.1% bourbon, it's pretty strong. I found it right at $50.

http://i1320.photobucket.com/albums/u528/johntylersmith11/453F1C4C-59E1-4F0F-B3E3-C37CCF3748AB_zpsugvnsjv1.jpg

Aroma- straight from the bottle to the rocks glass, there's a very powerful alcohol presence. After letting it breathe, it starts to smell like a bakery/pie store. Sweet fruity aroma with what I think of as apple pie spices and a little bit of vanilla. Very small oak aroma.

Body- color is similar to a dark amber honey color. It feels like it coats the mouth and has a good full body presence.

Taste- after the alcohol burn, it starts off with a small spice kick and then goes to a sweet place. Caramel, all spice, cinnamon, fruit, brown sugar, and molasses. Deeper flavor than regular MM. The finish retains some of those sweet notes then proceeds to a long smoky finish, with hints of tobacco and a trace of spice.
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I'm a big fan of the Maker's Cask. I'm glad they brought it to market. I can't think of another readily available wheated cask, and it's definitely something I needed in my life.
Link Posted: 5/6/2017 8:32:03 PM EDT
[#26]


The dram: Maker's Mark Private Select Cask Strength 111.5 proof

4 Oaked American Pure 2 staves, 4 seared French Cuvee,1 Roasted French Mocha, and 1 Toasted French Spice stave were used in this barrel

The setting: Sitting outback on a sunny day enjoying the breeze. Served neat in a modified rocks glass, and left to air for about 15 minutes. The bottle was just opened today.

Color: Deep reddish copper, long legs.

Nose: Bananas and fresh cut cherry wood, no alcohol at all on the nose despite the high proof, a little maraschino cherries/sugar.

Taste/palate: Cinnamon is the key word here. Lots of cinnamon, which is something I never really get from regular maker's mark at all. Then some of the banana bread and toasted sugar that makes me enjoy maker's so much as a sipping whiskey. This is fairly sweet, but not at all overpowering or sticky. The best part of this is that I don't get any of the aluminum/metallic flavor I get from standard Maker's.

Finish: Short finish. Zero burn, and I'm not saying that in a "oh look at me, I'm tough" kind of way. I mean that there is zero alcohol burn from this 111.5 proof pour. It leaves the back on the tongue/throat a little dry, but the toasted sugar lingers on the tip of the tongue.  

Score: 80/100

I try not to let price influence stuff, but if this was the price of regular makers mark it would score much higher and I would probably always keep a bottle in the bar. But.... it was over $70. At that price point, I think it was still a great bourbon, but it's facing some stiff competition from the single malt market. Overall, I really enjoyed this, and am excited to see if it opens up any more with a little air in the bottle.
Link Posted: 5/7/2017 6:26:36 AM EDT
[#27]
I've got a few glencairn glasses.  Are the Norlan glasses worth $25 dollars each?

They look really nice but other than that do they add much to the experience that a glencairn doesn't already?
Link Posted: 5/7/2017 8:21:47 AM EDT
[#28]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
I've got a few glencairn glasses.  Are the Norlan glasses worth $25 dollars each?

They look really nice but other than that do they add much to the experience that a glencairn doesn't already?
View Quote
Not really. They are way more comfortable in the hand than a glencairn, but other than that, the only difference is appearance. If does seem to mellow out barrel proofers a little.
Link Posted: 5/7/2017 4:44:57 PM EDT
[#29]




The dram: Nathan Stone's Private Stock bottled by Julian VanWinkle III in 1990 for the Japanese Market


The setting: Home alone, all the windows open, sipping neat out of a glencairn after a 15 minute rest, bottle just opened today.  

Color: Mahogany/deep umber long long long legs

Nose: A touch of Oak then toasted marshmallows and cherry

Taste/palate: Vanilla heavy pancakes topped in rich maple syrup with some caramel drizzled on top. It's dessert like, with a nice oily mouthfeel to it. A small amount of Oak pops up as you let it rest on the tongue.  

Finish: Long finish that breaks down into a tobacco smoke on the back end. The oil stays through and a small tingle from the proof reminds you that it's time for another drink.

Score: 90+/100

Not a lot of things I would give a 90+. I've read some weird reviews of this over the years, and now can't understand why at all. I had been saving this for a special occasion, but it's a beautiful day and I regret nothing. It's rich and oily and sweet and everything I could ever want out of a bourbon. It's sad to know that if I ever want another I'm going to have to pay crazy prices.
Link Posted: 5/14/2017 9:49:49 PM EDT
[#30]



The dram: Old Forester Statesman (LE for the new Kingsman movie)


The setting: 82 degrees and beautiful, sipping neat out of a modified rocks glass after a 15 minute rest, bottle just opened today.

Color: Light Caramel almost gold

Nose: Young alcohol, small bit of green wood, very mild vanilla

Taste/palate: Right off the bat, this taste young. Younger than most old forester, and much less balanced. The alcohol is at the forefront and remains a constant through the whole experience. Leaving it on the tongue a little helps to show some of the vanilla, and some sort of fruit.. maybe almost a green apple note. This trails off into what reminds me of walking through a perfume section at a department store. That odd taste on the tongue of a lot of light floral perfumes in the air. It is sweet, and clearly has notes of caramel like most old forester, but not as strong as usual.

Finish: This burns.... It leaves a young alcohol hit in the middle of the throat. Outside of that, it coats the mouth well and leaves some sweet fruit on the tongue. It stays with you for a while.

Score: 74/100

Not the worst LE I've ever had, and part of me even wonders if I should rate it higher. Not because I really loved it or anything, but because Old Forester marketed this as "hot" to reflect how the Kingsman and Stateman really come into their own when things "get hot". So this does do what they wanted it to. Whether or not that is for me is another question.
Link Posted: 5/15/2017 12:45:33 AM EDT
[#31]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/349595/20170507-160550-203632.jpghttps://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/349595/IMG-20170507-162738-962-203628.jpg
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/349595/IMG-20170507-162738-963-203630.jpghttps://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/349595/IMG-20170507-162738-961-203629.jpg


The dram: Nathan Stone's Private Stock bottled by Julian VanWinkle III in 1990 for the Japanese Market


The setting: Home alone, all the windows open, sipping neat out of a glencairn after a 15 minute rest, bottle just opened today.  

Color: Mahogany/deep umber long long long legs

Nose: A touch of Oak then toasted marshmallows and cherry

Taste/palate: Vanilla heavy pancakes topped in rich maple syrup with some caramel drizzled on top. It's dessert like, with a nice oily mouthfeel to it. A small amount of Oak pops up as you let it rest on the tongue.  

Finish: Long finish that breaks down into a tobacco smoke on the back end. The oil stays through and a small tingle from the proof reminds you that it's time for another drink.

Score: 90+/100

Not a lot of things I would give a 90+. I've read some weird reviews of this over the years, and now can't understand why at all. I had been saving this for a special occasion, but it's a beautiful day and I regret nothing. It's rich and oily and sweet and everything I could ever want out of a bourbon. It's sad to know that if I ever want another I'm going to have to pay crazy prices.
View Quote
Thanks! You've given me a "grail" bottle to seek here in Japan.
Link Posted: 5/15/2017 12:46:09 PM EDT
[#32]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Thanks! You've given me a "grail" bottle to seek here in Japan.
View Quote
It's pretty amazing. I may have to seek out another bottle.
Link Posted: 5/15/2017 10:02:20 PM EDT
[#33]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/349595/20170514-193503-208598.jpghttps://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/349595/20170514-193528-208596.jpg


The dram: Old Forester Statesman (LE for the new Kingsman movie)


The setting: 82 degrees and beautiful, sipping neat out of a modified rocks glass after a 15 minute rest, bottle just opened today.

Color: Light Caramel almost gold

Nose: Young alcohol, small bit of green wood, very mild vanilla

Taste/palate: Right off the bat, this taste young. Younger than most old forester, and much less balanced. The alcohol is at the forefront and remains a constant through the whole experience. Leaving it on the tongue a little helps to show some of the vanilla, and some sort of fruit.. maybe almost a green apple note. This trails off into what reminds me of walking through a perfume section at a department store. That odd taste on the tongue of a lot of light floral perfumes in the air. It is sweet, and clearly has notes of caramel like most old forester, but not as strong as usual.

Finish: This burns.... It leaves a young alcohol hit in the middle of the throat. Outside of that, it coats the mouth well and leaves some sweet fruit on the tongue. It stays with you for a while.

Score: 74/100

Not the worst LE I've ever had, and part of me even wonders if I should rate it higher. Not because I really loved it or anything, but because Old Forester marketed this as "hot" to reflect how the Kingsman and Stateman really come into their own when things "get hot". So this does do what they wanted it to. Whether or not that is for me is another question.
View Quote
I tried the standard stuff the other day, really isn't my cup of tea. I'm going to avoid this. More for others.
Link Posted: 7/6/2017 2:41:05 PM EDT
[#34]



The dram: 2016 Angel's Envy Cask Strength 124.6 proof


The setting: Hiding out from the thunderstorms with the wife and the pups, One ounce each sipping neat out of a glencairn after a 15 minute rest, bottle just opened today.

Color:
Me: Amber brownish. Not standard bourbon color. A lot of deep red shows through. In the bottle is a bunch of swirls and debris that Angel's envy recognized for this batch. It's odd. Looks almost like the living bacteria in kombucha ( i know it's not and nothing could live in alcohol this proof)
My Wife: Soft brown with amber undertones (kind of orangy red/copperish)

Nose:
Me: Super strong vanilla (almost a soapy cleanish wine hint on the backend)
My wife: It is straight up burning my nostrils. A few minutes later "maybe some cinnamon"

Taste/palate:
Me: Vanilla is big here and then there comes some plum or grape, maybe from the port. To me it's a little oily, and then you get this nice tingle on the tongue. A surprising absence of oak or smoke, really no corn flavor at all.

My wife: New flavor I've never had before in whiskey, almost citrusy. That first hit is almost a dead ringer for tangerines. Juicy as far as mouth feel goes, not viscous or oily, but very full. Maybe tangelos, that fruit juice is overpowering any other flavor.

Finish:
Me: The sweetness really hangs out for a while, then it is super dry on the back of the mouth. That tingle stays on the tongue for minutes, which seems to be the only real show of the 124 proof. Near the end of the pour, I'm starting to get some oil and oak that didn't show up for a long time. Causes some thick saliva, almost like sour candy.

My Wife: On the back of the tongue I'm getting some oil. I guess a long finish. It's still here. My tongue keeps watering afterwards. A weird almost broccoli bitterness after you've gone a while without a sip.

Score:
Me:80/100
My Wife:78/100

My wife's note is that there is something that she just didn't care for. "not sure if it's because I'm not a usual bourbon drinker, but there is just something I don't love about it. It's good, but that bitterness is a deterrent".
Link Posted: 7/7/2017 9:40:16 PM EDT
[#35]
Alright, let's give this a shot!  (pun intended)

Old Beezer 10 Year (90 proof)



Intro:
A friend mentioned he read about this recently and it sounded good.  I checked our state store website and it was on-hand at two local spots.  So, I went and picked up a bottle!  After doing more research, it seems not a whole lot of info is out there.  The bottle indicates this is from batch #1, bottled in May 2014.  Had a chat with the store manager and he indicated this was a "one-time purchase" product for the state.  In other words, this is all there is and it will not be restocked.

I was going to sit out back and enjoy a nice evening but it started pouring.  So, I'm back at my desk...  Having this neat, in a Glencairn glass.  

First impression:
This is an easy-drinking, though very sweet (to me) bourbon.  I can see this being popular to share with others, very approachable.

Color:
Honey and caramel.  Its not terribly dark but there is a nice warm tint to it that gives the illusion of a darker color in anything other than direct light.

Nose:
Sweet.  Caramel, vanilla and caramelized sugar/candy aromas.  Its definitely makes you think desert.  The alcohol/ethanol effect is sort of in there but fairly mild, unless I really bury my nose down in the glass.

Taste:
Follows the nose fairly well but not as sweet as I was expecting.  The vanilla and caramel notes are definitely there but tempered by the alcohol warmth.  (which actually is a bit understated)  Mild heat up front that flows into a long and low warmth creeping off the back of my tongue and all the way down into my stomach.  

There isn't a lot of complexity here, nothing is hiding out on you.  It presents all its tastes right up front and let's you just enjoy them without a lot of effort.  This is not one of those bourbons where I spend time hunting and digging for those underlying deep cherry notes, there aren't layers here.  

Mouth feel is what I'd call a medium thickness.  Its a little sticky in your jowls, so to speak...  I would compare it to the difference between artificial syrup (Aunt Jemima - thick and syrupy) and pure maple syrup (substantial flavor but much thinner liquid).  This is like the pure maple syrup consistency.

I did not add water or ice to this at any point.  I'm thinking there's a chance it might make this just fall apart and lose its flavors, become just all alcohol tastes.  It sort of feels "delicately balanced" like that.  Will eventually give it a try, though.

Finish:
Lightly evaporates off the tongue and chases the warmth down my chest.  Kind of a slow and steady retreat.  No after-bite of any sort, no new flavor emerges other than the slightly boozy "evaporating" sensation.  I'm left sort of sucking that lingering slight sweetness out of the corners of my mouth.  A very light candied sugar sensation hangs around on the lower sides of my tongue.

One other note - the more I drink of it, I start to notice a bit more of the alcohol warmth.  I think I'm adapting to the initial sweet notes and starting to see through them into the liquor underneath, if that makes sense.

Conclusion:
I'm not going to score this, I think I need to develop more of a personal gauge for scoring before I do that.  I would sum this up as a quality "lazy sipping bourbon."  Very middle of the road, if a little on the sweet side.  You can sit back, zone out and just sip away.  Would not go on my top or bottom shelf - somewhere in the middle.
Link Posted: 7/9/2017 10:04:36 AM EDT
[#36]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Conclusion:
I'm not going to score this, I think I need to develop more of a personal gauge for scoring before I do that.  I would sum this up as a quality "lazy sipping bourbon."  Very middle of the road, if a little on the sweet side.  You can sit back, zone out and just sip away.  Would not go on my top or bottom shelf - somewhere in the middle.
View Quote
Thanks for reviewing this, man. I've been trying to figure out who they sourced this from but they seem pretty secretive. Sounds like it's pretty good.
Link Posted: 9/14/2017 7:55:28 AM EDT
[#37]
I wanted to give this a bump because we're heading into fall and it seems more people are finding the wine cellar lately. Share some reviews gentlemen.
Link Posted: 12/21/2017 8:24:49 PM EDT
[#38]
Oban 18

Attachment Attached File


Setting-broke up with my girlfriend and figured a return to my real mistress would be a pleasant way to unwind, especially an 18 year old one it was also the first chilly/snowy day in my neck of Colorado. Opened the bottle and have let the dram sit for about fifteen minutes now. I am sober as an Ox and sipping from a Glencairm glass. Neat, but I will add a whisky rock about half way. My usual go-to is either laphroaig 10, or Ardberg 10. (Still been eying a bottle of Lagvulin and Caol Isla. Don't ever travel to the Isle of Islay!)

Color-to my eye, it is a pretty dark honey look to it, with a twinge of red. Looks similar to Laphroaig select cask strength, but a bit richer.

Nose- this is defiantly not as in your face as my usual islay whisky. It smells delicate, and after a few whiffs I get a floral smell, and perhaps a hint of sea salt, (nothing like talisker, but lying under the surface.) there is something sweet about the smell, combined with how the whisky sticks to the side of the glass, just brings me back to that honey thought from earlier

Taste- I actually said, "oh wow" to myself after the first sip. I got a strong sense of not quite lilac, but not, not lilac. Subtle bits of dark, rich chocolate followed. My second sip revealed some cooler citrus notes, and a slightly sharper finish. I'm really stuck on how rich this single malt is, it gives me the feeling of sticking to my mouth and throat...not necessarily the flavor, just the liquid. The feeling is devine. The further I get into the dram, the more it becomes less chocolate, and more caramel flavors. Which is my favorite part of sipping whisky, how complex and different a well crafted bottle can be.

Finish- much longer than little bay, my only other foray into Oban. Caramel notes as you swallow, followed by a sweet, floral finish that lasts a solid 30 seconds. Little to no effect on my tongue from alcohol, incredibly pleasant to drink.

Overall score- 8/10. While I don't think this strikes me as a winter, warm the soul kind of dram, I enjoyed every ounce of it. So much that I forgot to put rocks in it! I paid $70 for this bottle, compared to the NAS Little Bay at $50 or so, I think this is a steal. I think I'm going to save this bottle for more of a summer sipper. It's rich and sweet in many of the ways I thought Glenmorangies La Quinta was, albeit with a deeper flavor profile. 10/10 would buy this bottle again, and would honestly pay more for it.

My humble collection

Attachment Attached File
Link Posted: 12/21/2017 11:20:16 PM EDT
[#39]
This thread is fun, you guys should give it a shot
Link Posted: 12/31/2017 5:39:31 PM EDT
[#40]


The dram: Odin 16 year first fill sherry matured from Highland Park bottled at 55.8%.

The setting: surrounded by rapey dogs, watching futurama, and hiding from the highs in the mid teens that we have here today in the bluegrass

Color:
Me: Copper
My Wife: yellowish brown
My drinking buddy: too yellow to be butter scotchy

Nose:
Me: Good Pine and birch to it. Small amount of smoke on the nose. a little bit of autumn leaves with the mold to it.
My wife: Smells like a closet. Woody. Goldie Haan taught me that closets are made out of cedar
My drinking buddy: Smells like an old barn, musty and woody. Maybe Hay.

Taste/palate:
Me: great viscous mouthfeel to it. Not a lot of peat. I've got some rich plums and chocolate coming through, guessing from the sherry casks. Little bit of leather to it, with an awesome drying pine needle tea to it.
My wife: taste kind of caramelly, I had to hold it in my mouth for a while though. (laughter and bj jokes)
My Drinking Buddy: fuck thats smooth, is it supposed to be burny? Its not burny at all. That's super smooth and tasty.

Finish:
Me: There's the peat and the first hint at all of the proof of it. Still dangerously easy drinking for the proof, with a little oiliness coating my mouth. A small numbness hangs out for a while.
My Wife: Citrus Pith on the finish, gets way more bitter as you drink it.
My Drinking buddy: Finish drops off, but with only the flavor. Now it's just the burn like I put chlorospetic in my mouth. This is going to make me drink it quickly. Musty.

Score:
Me: 85/100 probably built it up a little because I've been so excited about it, but it has a lot that i like about highland park, but almost toned down. Wish there was more peat.
My Wife:78/100 I really like the initial, but not into the aftertaste.
My Drinking Buddy: 83/100 Ali doesn't like it. I'm having a hard time scoring it.
Link Posted: 12/31/2017 5:45:17 PM EDT
[#41]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Oban 18

https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/247398/IMG_3848-397286.JPG

Setting-broke up with my girlfriend and figured a return to my real mistress would be a pleasant way to unwind, especially an 18 year old one it was also the first chilly/snowy day in my neck of Colorado. Opened the bottle and have let the dram sit for about fifteen minutes now. I am sober as an Ox and sipping from a Glencairm glass. Neat, but I will add a whisky rock about half way. My usual go-to is either laphroaig 10, or Ardberg 10. (Still been eying a bottle of Lagvulin and Caol Isla. Don't ever travel to the Isle of Islay!)

Color-to my eye, it is a pretty dark honey look to it, with a twinge of red. Looks similar to Laphroaig select cask strength, but a bit richer.

Nose- this is defiantly not as in your face as my usual islay whisky. It smells delicate, and after a few whiffs I get a floral smell, and perhaps a hint of sea salt, (nothing like talisker, but lying under the surface.) there is something sweet about the smell, combined with how the whisky sticks to the side of the glass, just brings me back to that honey thought from earlier

Taste- I actually said, "oh wow" to myself after the first sip. I got a strong sense of not quite lilac, but not, not lilac. Subtle bits of dark, rich chocolate followed. My second sip revealed some cooler citrus notes, and a slightly sharper finish. I'm really stuck on how rich this single malt is, it gives me the feeling of sticking to my mouth and throat...not necessarily the flavor, just the liquid. The feeling is devine. The further I get into the dram, the more it becomes less chocolate, and more caramel flavors. Which is my favorite part of sipping whisky, how complex and different a well crafted bottle can be.

Finish- much longer than little bay, my only other foray into Oban. Caramel notes as you swallow, followed by a sweet, floral finish that lasts a solid 30 seconds. Little to no effect on my tongue from alcohol, incredibly pleasant to drink.

Overall score- 8/10. While I don't think this strikes me as a winter, warm the soul kind of dram, I enjoyed every ounce of it. So much that I forgot to put rocks in it! I paid $70 for this bottle, compared to the NAS Little Bay at $50 or so, I think this is a steal. I think I'm going to save this bottle for more of a summer sipper. It's rich and sweet in many of the ways I thought Glenmorangies La Quinta was, albeit with a deeper flavor profile. 10/10 would buy this bottle again, and would honestly pay more for it.

My humble collection

https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/247398/IMG_3849-397287.JPG
View Quote
Thanks for sharing man! It sounds awesome, haven't had that one yet.
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