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For the curious whiskey enthusiast... We're bringing out the big guns today. I did a blind tasting of this live on Instagram with @amongstthefernsco , and it was a blast. We very clearly identified this as the better whiskey when compared blindly to Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A122. Now that that's out of the way, I thought it was time to do a deeper dive on this release. Given the relative rarity of this bottle, I'm sure there are many who are curious if this is worth chasing. I hope this review helps you to come to your own conclusion there. Now let's get into it! Company on Label: Heaven Hill Whiskey Type: Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: 78% Corn, 10% Rye, 12% Malted Barley Proof: 118.2° Age: 17 years (a blend of 28% 20 year, 44% 19 year, and 28% 17 year bourbons) Further identification: This is the 2022 release from Heaven Hill under the Heritage Collection banner; it debuted in the Spring of 2022 at an MSRP of $275 Nose: From a foot away I can smell the rich caramel from what seems to be a great deal of barrel influence. Soft orange peel dances in the air. Upon bringing the glass to my nose, I find a rich, dark molasses right upfront. Wow, there's definitely a lot of oak going on here. There's a lovely cinnamon spice that trails off into rich pepper, damp earth, and a dense pile of firewood. I'm finding a lot of the rich funk you would expect out of this release. I'm almost reminded of the pervasive cinnamon hots that some of the Starlight Cigar Batches take on from the Brazilian Amburana oak finishes, but it is distinctly more subtle here. The orange peel I was smelling from a distance is subdued now as more of the cool, dark, earthy tones express themselves in this early glass. Caramel, rich oak, and molasses continue to be the persistent aromas in the glass before sipping on anything. There are hints of a bright vanilla bean and some herbaceous garden bed smells hiding in the depths. Oh, now there's much more vanilla and just a touch of linen; it's like a Heaven Hill light switch just went off in my brain! We've returned to the big oak tones and big, spice-forward black pepper notes—time for a sip. Wow, the vanilla characteristics have turned really delectable after a sip. What a delicious aroma! The soft herbal tones have also returned in a larger way. Coffee grounds can be dug up with a prying nose. I'm really sticking a lot to the nutty tones here—testament perhaps to the fact that this almost certainly has to be from the gifted Beam yeast, given the timeline of the awful fire that occurred at Heaven Hill in 1996. That slight nuttiness is one of my favorite characteristics in whiskey, personally. It's not overpowering here and balances extremely well with the traditional vanilla that's been ramped up to the perfect age. As I get near the bottom of the glass, I find myself wanting to drift away into silent enjoyment rather than keep up the analytics, which is typically a sure sign of a truly enjoyable pour! As the liquid in the glass seems to keep disappearing, I start to find some hallmarks of age: aromas of a leather-bound book, oiled mahogany, and troves of oak trinkets. The empty glass smells like vanilla perfected with just the right amount of sweetness. Palate: My first sip is surprisingly fruity given the experience on the nose. I find a ton of zesty orange peel right away. The cinnamon hots are definitely also present, so that transferred well from the initial nose. There's an impressive ease to the palate, which is surprising for a first sip of the day. Even from one sip, there is a long linger highlighted by a slight salty peanut flavor. I'm more reminded of peanut shells, and there's a touch of milk chocolate if you work your tongue around the rich mouth coating. I am already starting to think that this is a fantastic glass to sit and savor, and it might not do as well in a head-to-head format where there is a faster pace and more flavors competing. It's subtle and nuanced from the get-go, but perhaps lacking a bit of wow factor up front. That said, I do think it delivers an exceptional experience for someone with a refined palate. Perhaps it's time for another sip? I think so. Airing out a second sip builds in soft cherry skins, apricot, and buttery peach cobbler. There is a big chest hug after this sip for me today. The similar peanut and chocolate linger from the first sip persists but builds in intensity closer to a Reese's peanut butter cup. A larger sip and swish brings me to a lovely maraschino cherry with just a kiss of rye spice. It's cocktail-forward in its sweetness with what feels like a dash of Angostura bitters on the side. As I near the end of the glass, this continues to stand up really well: zesty orange peel, confectioners sugar, My last sip is a delight as blood orange, cherry parfait, and cinnamon doughnuts pepper my taste buds. The linger is long, with a singing caramel, butterscotch, and molasses granola that sticks to every surface of my mouth. Yum! Rating: 5/5 ( Just wow. One of my favorites. ) This is a damn fine release from Heaven Hill. I'll certainly be sharing it and enjoying it in good company, but I'm not going to give this one a " Keep Amongst the Whiskey " rating, as I don't think I will be able to readily find another to enjoy once this bottle is gone. Buy Heaven Heritage Collection Hill 17 Year Bourbon WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

Vacation reviews continued! It's been a great week of river reviews. Drinking drams with my old man is always a great time. Even better when we are catching beautiful brook trout too. Tonight we have an old staple coming back around in a new barrel. Let’s see how this one drinks! Bonus pictures to follow... Company on Label: Heaven Hill Whiskey Type: Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: 78% Corn, 10% Rye, 12% Barley Proof: 100° Age: 10 years Further identification: Barrel 9862; barreled on 12/22/10 Nose: Rich stewed stone fruits immediately, like plum and cherry. Powerful citrus zest pops out alongside a tame caramel. Molasses pools heavy in the corners. Dark Heaven Hill cloth/paper note I'm starting to become really accustomed to finding. Similar to the note on HH BiB. Nice herbal chocolate blend with some orange zest and pepper. Really feels like a Lindt "Intense Orange" bar. Thoroughly powerful and complex. Palate: Delicious syrupy plum and apricot. Slight candied apple, but primarily vanilla and caramel coming through. Darker and packed with more flavor than some other Henry McKenna barrels I have tried, this is definitely the type of barrel I prefer. I think 1/3 of the bottles I've bought have been winners like this one now. More citrusy today than when I first cracked this one yesterday for #McKennaMonday, it's a little different today. Some more spiciness today too, but not a cinnamon hots or pepper spice hot... it's something tied into the vanilla or molasses. Thorough mouth coating with mint and vanilla, the finish yields a relaxing medley of dark fruit and sweet vanilla that can do no wrong. Despite the inconsistencies, I'll be regularly keeping this #AmongstTheWhiskey. Rating: 4/5 Buy Henry McKenna Bourbon Here Brook trout caught by yours truly

Company on Label: Heaven Hill Whiskey Type: Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: 78% Corn, 10% Rye, 12% Barley Proof: 100° Age: 10 years Further identification: Barrel 9563; barreled on 11-16-09 Oh this one is rich and dark instead of the usual light citrus I get. The nose is still very citrusy, but it also comes with a dark leather and cherry. Vanilla bean ice cream is so creamy; a light caramel drizzle mixing in. Pepper, butter and very malty notes coming out now. The cherry has turned to a sour candy. The leather is just so potent mixed with the dessert vanilla. A thick honey can be found on the edges of the glass. I could nose this forever. Palate is quite a departure from the experience I was having on the nose. Simply unique in its own regard, it punches forward with a syrupy, minty oak. Dark fruit like dates and figs sit in the middle. Slightly tannic on the oak note but balanced by a hint of sweet honey. Rye grain is the predominant addition to the flavor mix, but presents very subtly. Finish is low in intensity but long in duration. I feel like I'm left in a thin cloud of dark sweetness. Rating: 4/5

“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.”  - Henry David Thoreau Michter's 10 year bourbon bottlings have long been a fan favorite for anyone enthusiastic about Kentucky bourbon. Toeing into the land of the hyper-aged spirits, there's a reputation going around that this release often includes whiskeys that are older than the age statement on the bottle. How these blends get put together is still much of a mystery, but the tasting team at Michter's consists of incredible palates and dedicated scientists. Much like the naturalist Henry David Thoreau would extol the virtues of reflecting on experiences in the natural world with pointed rhetoric, I adore sitting with a whiskey a long while, exploring it thoroughly in order to observe and understand its true character. For this year's Michter's 10 year bourbon, that included enjoying and sharing all 750mL that comes in the broad shouldered bottle from Michter's sourced stocks over the course of more than 50 days. This is above and beyond my normal process laid out in my editorial policy , but occasionally really interesting whiskeys make me pause and evaluate for a long while, much like the legendary late Harvey Fry tended to do—spending upwards of a week getting to know a particular whisky expression before offering full tasting notes and a rating. My dear friend Alden Hart told this story to Charles Maclean who looked surprised and possibly a little jealous. I took this assignment personally and extended a week process out to a month. Ready to hear about the latest and greatest from Michter's? Let's get on with the review that has been nearly 2 months in the making. Company on Label:  Bottled by Michter's Distillery LLC, Louisville, Kentucky 40216 Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed bourbon mash bill Proof:  94.4° Age:  10 years (though commonly assumed to be older) MSRP:  $195 Further identification:  This is a single barrel product; the bottle under review comes from barrel 25A0147, which I purchased with my own money at an elevated market price ($345) Nose:  Light caramel and wispy thin butterscotch lead on a searching inhale. Touches of cardamom and bubbly Fresca give a little intrigue to an otherwise rather simple, easy-going nose. The aromas are cohesive but fairly mellowed out from a long rest in oak. After a sip, gobs of vanilla dominate the sensory wheel. A shy nose slowly ekes out hints of black pepper, black licorice, and black ice over pavement. The empty glass smells of crêpes loaded with whipped cream with an undercurrent of light cola. Palate:  My first sip is light and easy on the tongue, just as the whiskey was on the nose. A long swish and hold on the tongue reveals butter, pie crust, and brown sugar syrup, which paint a velvety picture on the palate. Another sip laces in graham cracker and just a kiss of anise. If it had more effervescence, it would start to resemble a glass of IBC root beer, straight from the glass bottle. By my third sip, I'm ready to invoke the ultimate whiskey writing sin: this pour is smooth . This is kick-off-your-boots whiskey—you're free to melt into a comfy couch with not a chore left on the to-do list. The linger sits long on the tongue and up in the roof of the mouth with mint, chocolate, and confectioners' sugar. Sipping near the bottom of the glass shows off salt water taffy and a kiss of coconut. If it seems that I'm being washy with the light adjectives, that's just an accurate depiction of the whiskey at hand. As I land softly at the bottom of my glass, I struggle to find further complexities outside of a whisper of the character inherent in the 2023 Michter's 10 year bourbon expressions that I fell in love with. Those pours were rich with earthy clay, layers of vanilla, and vintage oak in spades. This unfortunately falls short of that level of greatness, as the finish leaves little parting impression. TL;DR: An almost-great bourbon that lands squarely in the shadow of former releases Rating:  3.5/5 ( Good enough. There's something to enjoy here. ) While exceptionally easy to drink, this ultimately lacks a defining character, something the 23A0043 Michter's 10 year bourbon exuded in spades. I expect a higher caliber of whiskey, an air of elegance, and bountiful complexity out of a release as regaled as Michter's 10 year bourbon . Despite not rating with any regard to price, I am compelled to question the value here, with many other budget whiskeys nailing this level of drinkability at much lower price points. Despite all these qualms—it's still a crushable whiskey. At the time of publishing, I no longer have the bottle under review, if that's any indication to you on my level of enjoyment that you can glean beyond my standardized rating scale . I'm hoping next year will be another truly special year for Michter's 10 year bourbon. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“You see, there are two kinds of people in this world: the workers and the hustlers. The hustlers never work, and the workers never hustle...”  - Doug, Cocktail Far too often I hear people describe a whiskey as "a mixing whiskey." This term, inherently derogatory towards the quality of the spirit, is counterintuitive to me. It's a good whiskey that ultimately makes a good cocktail. Whether I am crafting a stellar rye old fashioned or a sweet bourbon concoction, I try to hold a few simple life mottos: "All days are good days" and "Good stuff in, good stuff out" are amongst my favorite quotes to recite to friend and foe alike. So it's with those notions in mind that I say, mix with your best . You may be surprised by the outcome. That's exactly what I did when I set out to make my own version of the Gold Rush , an institutional cocktail now known the world over. First concocted by a patron of Milk & Honey sometime around 2000, this now-famous cocktail has since been enjoyed by countless bar patrons since its inception. Robert Simonson did a great piece  covering the invention of this mixology masterpiece that's certainly worth a read once you've got a cocktail in hand. If you've never made one of these, I've got the full recipe for you towards the bottom of this article, so hang tight. First, let's explore the whiskey I chose for my Gold Rush: a single barrel selection of Blanton's Gold bourbon. Single barrel selections of whiskey are not a new phenomenon. Retailers, groups, and even some brave individuals have been regularly doing barrel picks since the bourbon craze firmly took hold around 2018. In the whiskey enthusiast community, Buffalo Trace Distillery tends to be the most commonly sought-after distillery to do picks from, if not the pinnacle of all barrel selections. Weller, Stagg, and E.H. Taylor single barrels have been the talk of the town for the last decade. Single barrel selections of Blanton's Gold are a relatively new offering, however. One of the first selections landed in my home state of Massachusetts, where I was honored to have tasted from the barrel samples and ultimately agreed with the store's selection; they had a dandy of a bourbon on their hands. Wondering what the whiskey tastes like on its own? Let's get into a quick review. Company on Label:  Blanton Distilling Company (Buffalo Trace Distillery, operated under Sazerac) Whiskey Type:  Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  Undisclosed bourbon mash bill #2 Proof:  103° Age:  NAS MSRP:  $160 Further identification:  This single barrel was selected by Wyman's Liquors in Leominster, MA; it was dumped on 2-26-2025 from barrel 28, stored in warehouse H, on rick number 37 Nose:  This leads peppery up front with deep caramel undertones. The oak influence is strong yet not at the forefront in aroma. Undulating tones of white linens, salty oysters, and beach sand create a lovely array to behold. With time the glass opens up to a forest floor filled with pine needles, rich in time, patience, history, and lore. It's a spicy, vibrant, punchy nose that should satiate the most experienced whiskey connoisseurs. After a few sips, the glass almost leans into a profile more typical of Weller Full Proof. Cherry, caramel, and butterscotch can be found on long, savor-worthy inhales. The empty glass smells of zesty lemon in a summer cocktail (foreshadowing!) and dried peach. Palate:  On first taste, I'm impressed by the vibrancy that is typically tamped down with traditional Blanton's bottlings. This is bold, black pepper spice-forward with butterscotch and molasses following behind on a complex wave of bourbon prowess. Another sip offers a similar depth, now with dried raisin, toffee, and grenadine. The linger washes oddities out with a consistent caramel sweetness. This is a creamy, sweet whiskey through and through despite a few prickles of black pepper and allspice that keep the attention sharp. As I sip near the bottom of the glass, I find the red fruit returning in spades without coming across as tannic. My last sip offers vanilla frosting and pear before a long linger of apple brandy and caramel syrup takes over the taste buds. Blanton's Gold Rush Recipe This is a simple and classic cocktail. You're only going to need 3 ingredients, but this recipe is receptive to some subtle modifications if needed. Recipe 2 oz Blanton's Gold Bourbon ¾ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice ¾ oz honey syrup (two parts honey + one part hot water) A lemon wheel or peel for garnish Instructions Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice Add bourbon, lemon juice, and honey to the shaker Shake vigorously for 30-40 seconds Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube Garnish with a slice of lemon or an expressed lemon peel Alternate Ingredients If you don't have any Blanton's Gold on hand, you can use any sweet, complex bourbon you see fit Lime would be a good lemon substitute, if desired; skip the squeeze bottle formats you'll find at the grocery store though—squeeze some fresh fruit here The honey syrup ingredient is where I had the most fun experimenting with this cocktail; try an Irish honey liqueur like I did in this rendition The result of mixing with a $160 bourbon that is delicious on its own? An elevated cocktail experience. The bright black pepper spice of the bourbon gets cut down perfectly by the sweet honey. The raisin, toffee, and butterscotch tones don't get watered down but elevated by the zesty lemon juice. If you thought mixing whiskey was just the bottom-shelf budget bourbon, think again. So if you're here reading this and still haven't tried the Gold Rush cocktail, what are you waiting for? Head down to your favorite watering hole, or better yet, grab the requisite ingredients and get mixing! The odds of your local bar serving this up with Blanton's Gold are relatively slim, but then too, so are the odds of you owning a bottle. This is the kind of whiskey that collectors love to hunt, given the trinket that adorns every bottle—the cast horse topper cork. Even if you were previously proud of having secured each of the individual letters that spell out BLANTON'S when you collected each racehorse and jockey topper, you've now got a new tier of memento to chase. The golden toppers now available on the Blanton's Gold bottles may just be the bane of completionism's existence, but I say... hunt on! WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“Virtue lies in the middle ground.”  - Jose Rizal Now smack dab in the middle of the age statements that Jack Daniel's has resurrected from the annals of this historic distillery, batch 03 of the 12 year expression aims to satisfy the whiskey enthusiast looking for a little more than the simplicity of Jack's Old No. 7. Bumping up the proof from 97 to 107 as you go from the 10 year to the 12 year expression will likely help this appeal to drinkers who have sampled their fair share of pours. Higher proof doesn't always mean more or better flavor, though. When comparing the first release of the 12 year expression to batch 02 of the 10 year expression , I actually slightly preferred the lower proof offering. Since then, the 10 year expression has unfortunately fallen out of my good graces . Ready to find out how this year's 12 year expression stacks up? Let's dive in. Company on Label:  Jack Daniel Distillery Whiskey Type:  Tennessee whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye Proof:  107° Age:  12 years MSRP:   $95 (2025) Further identification:  This is batch 3 of the 12 year expression, which first released in March of 2023 Nose:  The nose immediately leads with a lovely, vibrant richness of caramel. It's oily in feel, as flan and butterscotch jump to mind. The glass is warm and inviting as deep inhales comfortably pull out aromas of Baked Alaska with a beautiful rum flambé. Complex hints of cinnamon bread, whipped cream, and rich oak round out a whiskey free of complaint. After a few sips, the whiskey gets a touch complacent in its character, finding revelry in boisterously imparting the same caramel and butterscotch that the glass led with. Flashes of beautiful, crystalline, creamy complexity continue to tug at my heartstrings as I yearn for more of the perfection this liquid is hiding beneath its surface. I'm aware that this is a lovely whiskey, but it's a touch shy and currently hiding behind a wall of vanilla bean and oak, which is not all that unpleasant in its own right. Deep inhales late in the glass produce a marshmallow sweetness I wasn't expecting. There's an underlying earthiness that reminds me of the pine forests of Northern Maine. The empty glass smells of fresh leather, damp green oak leaves, and a verdant forest floor. Palate:  On first sip I find a cohesive, creamy, and sweet whiskey leading with the fluffy egg white and sugar of a meringue that dances on the taste buds near the front of the tongue. In a surprise twist of simplicity, I find the flavors run right up the middle of the tongue, imparting only a little bloom of complexity that adds caramel and raisin bread. Another taste adds further wood spice and a subtle peanut brittle to the mix as dry cinnamon stick and black pepper begin to sap the tongue of its moisture. In redeeming moments, the creaminess from the early nose transposes to the palate, and all is right again. It's a delicate balance that occasionally sings but sometimes temporarily violates my trust. Sipping slowly and patiently returns the glass to a place of reverence in a classic whiskey profile. Hints of raisin add to the overall depth as the linger begins to build in intensity. Sipping off the well-rested glass elevates a whiskey that feels bottled at just the perfect proof. Caramel Werther's, tart black cherries, and just a kiss of cardamom round out a lovely dram. TL;DR: An evolving pour that runs right in the comfort zone for a patient, longtime enthusiast Rating:  4/5 ( Really good. I want one of these on my shelf. ) This is a whiskey that demands patience. With subtle undulations in quality and character, this is the kind of pour that will reward those who are willing to sit with a glass and really get to know the creator. While this is certainly good, it's not quite Jack Daniel's 14 year good. You can find my review for the 14 year expression here , and if you're really loving my writing, feel free to buy me a coffee ! WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.”  - Mark Twain The oldest expression from the modern Jack Daniel's distillery is hot on the scene and making waves in the whiskey world. Seemingly distributed in one of the smallest quantities possible, I had everything to do just to get a hold of one bottle for review. Stores across Massachusetts kept telling me month after month since the Jack Daniel's press release dropped, "It hasn't arrived yet, and when it does come in, we might only get one bottle." My heart sank each time, because these age stated expressions represent exactly what I had hoped the team behind this reliable old distillery would do—continue to innovate. When their rye expression burst onto the scene with the 2020 limited edition special release rye , I was floored with what their rye grain could do in a well-crafted final product . "... when it does come in, we might only get one bottle." Alas, this corn-forward Tennessee whiskey may be the ultimate representation of a limited release whiskey. With distribution being as scarce as it is, many folks are turning towards reviews, wondering if this expression could possibly be worth what price-gouging stores and secondary markets are fixing this for, well above the suggested retail price of $150. The cost-conscious consumer might even wonder at MSRP as well, when Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 is sitting on every whiskey shelf in the world at a cool 27 bucks. It once again beckons forth the age-old question in whiskey: is older better? What are we really paying for here? I've been fortunate to have had the chance to visit the Jack Daniel Distillery several times for barrel picks. In conversations with wonderful humans like Lexie Phillips and her husband, appropriately nicknamed Nacho Libre, I've come to learn this brand is a force to be reckoned with. Their whiskey production capability puts them into a league of their own, where the next biggest distillery or label isn't even on their radar. In a hilarious example of this, I couldn't help but chuckle when I was there last year, picking barrels with Pablo Moix and his adorable dogs. Nacho kindly informed Pablo that, no, he had actually not heard of the business phenom nor his increasingly popular whiskey brand, Rare Character . Perhaps this was just a sly joke that soared over my head amongst the many samples of barrel proof whiskey we were sipping through, but it left me with the sense that Lynchburg is something of an island—cut off from the sphere of influence of the outside (whiskey) world that patient taste-travelers like myself yearn to explore and understand. For a whiskey goliath such as this, the profits to be made from small-scale innovations like these hyper-aged whiskeys are marginal in comparison to the power that their voluminous shelf offerings pull in for the Brown-Forman portfolio. Instead of targeting the bottom line, this bottling appears to be aiming more towards preserving some of the historical significance of the Jack Daniel's legacy. Over a century ago, these age stated expressions were part of the core lineup. The momentous return of these couldn't come at a better time, when whiskey enthusiasts are looking to drink and share only the best whiskeys. “When we released our first Jack Daniel’s 10-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey a few years ago, we set out to honor the legacy of Jack Daniel himself and replicate the lineup of age-stated whiskeys available during his time,” said Chris Fletcher, Master Distiller at the Jack Daniel Distillery. “This year’s releases build upon that as we re-introduce our new 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey, the oldest age-statement for Jack Daniel’s in the last 100 years or more. These whiskeys really showcase how a little extra time in our barrels is capable of producing something so special.” Fletcher knows that with 14 years of aging in the intense Tennessee heat, some careful barrel handling had to be employed. After proofing and likely tasting some of the aging stocks, the team resolved to move the barrels that were slated for this release—and for age statements beyond 14—to lower floors in their rickhouses, slowing the maturation effects that might turn double-digit whiskeys into overoaked messes. This attention to detail tells me that this release was crafted by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. So, my dear reader, are you ready to find out if all that care has resulted in the perfect sipping whiskey? Let's get into a full review. Company on Label:   Jack Daniel Distillery Whiskey Type:  Tennessee whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye Proof:  126.3° Age:  14 years MSRP:   $150 (2025) Further identification:  This is batch 1, first released in February, 2025 in very limited distribution Nose:  The glass opens with rich caramel leaning towards flan and creamy butterscotch, reminiscent of some dusty bourbon. It’s bright, potent, and thick in nose feel. Some traces of classic, rich old oak introduce subtle black pepper and allspice on an altogether quite classic whiskey aroma wheel. Nosing further brings forth the hair-raising chill of nostalgia, the feeling of falling in love with a new whiskey category. Wow, holding the glass at a bit of distance produces such a profound and clear vanilla bean ice cream aroma. As the glass continues to bloom, buttery aromas build in intensity, and my heart swoons. Some light florals dance around the ubiquitous, level oak. You can tell it’s generally a high-proof pour without any of the stinging pain in the nostrils that can sometimes come with it. After a sip, the nose casts forth a touch more ethanol, but not in a volume that poses a problem to me personally. Vanilla and ginger ale are dominant late in the pour as the volume of aroma diminishes in perfect coordination with the volume of liquid remaining in the glass. The glass tapers off slowly toward a perfectly comfortable array of bready tones. The empty glencairn smells of candied apple, Werther’s caramel chews, and a cloud of gorgeous vanilla creaminess. I find myself quite lost in this pour with eyes closed in quiet bliss. Palate:  On first taste I find a cacophonous wave of flavor: silky flan darts to buttercream frosting, then lazily drifts around a bend of maraschino cherry juice. The linger is impossibly long, as if time weren’t even available for consideration. This pour instantly reminds me of a hot summer’s day, floating down a river in an inflatable raft loaded down with a day's worth of drinks. Another sip amplifies the joy, extolling all the virtues of hyper-aged whiskey. Coconut butter, pancake batter, and a dash of brown sugar all sit atop the well-integrated oak. Sipping late in the glass offers molasses drizzled atop a bed of waffles before a stupidly long linger of allspice dram, anise, and caramel tingle on and on in every nook and cranny of the mouth. This is a lovely whiskey. TL;DR: This is the whiskey we've been waiting for from Jack Daniel's Rating:  4.5/5 ( Absolutely delicious. Enthusiast grade pour. ) Goodness me, this was worth the price of admission. Clearly shining above and beyond the 10 year and 12 year expressions from this year, this is the bottle to hunt for in 2025. It's the bottle I can't stop going back to any time I get in the mood for a great whiskey, which is why it has solidly earned my Keep Amongst the Whiskey designation. If the Jack team can consistently continue to scale out whiskey of this caliber, JD has a bright future amongst whiskey enthusiasts near and far. WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

Good things come to those who wait. At least that's what I told myself back in August of 2022, when I had just finished waxing poetic about how much I loved the 2020 special release rye to Lexie Phillips during our barrel picking experience . I was begging both her and their head of innovation for more rye releases. She smiled and nodded in appreciation and hidden delight for the projects to come. The Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Special Release series highlights an annual limited innovation from the Jack Daniel Distillery and this year’s release is a twist on the original - Heritage Barrel. Twice Barreled Heritage Barrel Rye is a celebration of the whiskey-making traditions of our distillery and the barrel-making expertise of our cooperage. The 2023 Jack Daniel’s Special Release is a one-of-a-kind experience crafted from 70% rye, 18% corn, and 12% malted barley and twice barreled for a complex taste. What has 2023 brought us? Single barrel barrel proof rye and this wonderful heritage barrel release that I got a sneak peak of thanks to my good pal Frank Dobbins . Wondering if it's any good? Let's dive into a proper Amongst the Whiskey review. Company on Label: Jack Daniel Distillery Whiskey Type: Rye Whiskey Mash Bill Percentages: 70% Rye, 18% Corn, 12% Malted Barley Proof: 100° Age: NAS, but based on the barrel dates on the neck tag it spent 5.5 years in its first fill barrel and 2.5 years in its second fill toasted oak barrel, resulting in a total time duration of about 8 years of aging Further identification: This 2023 limited edition release is Tennessee rye whiskey finished in toasted oak barrels; it comes in the square 700mL special release bottle format bearing the dates of fill & it retails for $75 MSRP Nose: Sweet lemon suckers and cotton candy jump out of the glass first for me. The nose feel is bright and effervescent, like a refreshing glass of iced-down ginger lemonade on a clear summer day. Diving my nose back in reveals maple sugar, bacon bits, and bountiful, level oak. Deep inhales are quite approachable at this proof, as molasses and cardamom aromas proliferate in the bulb of my glencairn. Zesty flashes of citrus, sage, and saffron rise off the surface of the whiskey. My, my... If you really dig, you can find this wonderful balance between light and dark. The dark yin of the 5.5 years of aging in charred American oak brings in the maple, brown sugar, and caramel tones, while the light yang of the toasted oak layers in marshmallow, delicate florals, and soft fruit. They come together beautifully on the nose here, a testament to the care and attention to detail that was given to this release. Overall, this smells like a classic American rye whiskey profile that many should enjoy. Time for a sip. Honey and a hint of smoke build well into the already complex profile as my nose takes a cursory pass back over the glass. Wow. Strong aromas of date, raisin, and plum have snowballed in the well-rested glass. Near the bottom of the glass, wonderfully nostalgic aromas of freshly sawn wood complement the vanilla notes that whisper sweet nothings to the patient observer. The maple tones cannot be understated here. Overall, the glass is elegantly creamy and well put together, completely bucking the presumptuous notion that Jack Daniels is for college kids and hillbillies. The empty glass smells of sweet charcoal smoke, cinnamon, coriander, and clove. The empty glass aroma smells just like Christmas time. Mmm. Palate: Wetting the whistle with this whiskey first and foremost shows the oily, slightly tannic profile that typically comes with toasted barrel finishes done right. It's unfamiliar at first to those used to traditional aging, with the toasted barrel characteristics definitely coming off pronounced. Subsequent sips mellow out this contrast, and the unified liquid gives off notes of honeysuckle, Earl Grey tea, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. A longer sip and swish reveals delicious nutmeg, maple syrup, lemon biscotti, and a thick, viscous mouth coating of mascarpone frosting. For not being barrel proof, this release suffers no indifference from me; full, rich flavor sits in every crevice of this glass. Sipping down near the bottom of the glass shows off a well-developed medley of right where this glass started. Maple, molasses, and creamy citrus tones swirl in a wonderfully sweet and complete sip. My last sip reminds me of a coffee roll on a slow Sunday morning. TL;DR: Rich citrus on a distinctly different wavelength than the norm Rating: 4/5 ( Really good; I want one of these on my shelf. ) Well damn. Nicely done, Chris Fletcher. Take a bow. This is definitely a release I am going to be savoring, so it rightfully earns a nod ahead of my other 4/5 ratings with the Keep Amongst the Whiskey designation . I don't think it quite crests my appreciation for the single barrel barrel proof we locked down for MA , nor the 2020 limited edition rye release , but it delivers an exceptionally 'different' profile for those looking to really explore the vastness of the wide whiskey world & can appreciate when something just works out for the best. Buy Jack Daniel's Twice Barreled Rye WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

“All good is hard. All evil is easy. Dying, losing, cheating, and mediocrity is easy. Stay away from easy.”  - Scott Alexander Now in its 4th year since first being introduced in late 2021, Jack Daniel's 10 year continues to attempt to stretch the boundaries of blending prowess for an age-stated whiskey. Presumably made up entirely of 10 year old barrels, the team at Jack Daniel's certainly has a hard act to follow. Since I've covered the first 3 releases already and documented well the variability that has occurred batch to batch, this may be the seminal year for this release. Company on Label:  Jack Daniel Distillery Whiskey Type:  Tennessee whiskey Mash Bill Percentages:  80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye Proof:  97° Age:  10 years MSRP:   $85 (2025) Further identification:  This is batch 4 of the 10 year expression, which first released in September 2021 Nose:  Light banana bread leads the way in that classic Jack Daniel’s fashion. It’s a glass that’s a bit light on volume but approachable in form. Hints of cream cheese and grilled muffin undulate in the searching nostrils. Returning the nose after a few sips produces the typical accoutrements of a fish dish: lemon, dill, black pepper, and garlic swirl in subtle waves. There’s something a touch metallic about this pour that has me thrown off a bit. The empty glass smells of grass clippings, tiki bar rum, and cast iron. Palate:  On first taste I find zesty lemon cookie that darts across the tongue before all the flavor quickly sinks through unseen crevices. Another sip is easier going with thin drizzles of caramel running up the sides of the tongue and buttered bread landing squarely in a simple and equable linger. At the final sip, I’m satisfied but not impressed as egg whites and ginger beer cough up their final complexities. The finish is fleeting but sweet, with vanilla yogurt dominating the profile. TL;DR: A bland, boring whiskey Rating:  2.5/5 ( Okay whiskey. Nothing special about this pour. ) With more focus perhaps being dedicated to the latest and greatest high-age statements, the 10 year expression seems to have been put out to pasture. In my analysis of each batch, there has been a consistent slide in quality since the wonderful complexity of batch 02 . Batch 1 Batch 2 Batch 3 Batch 4 Nose Black pepper Paper Faint citrus Creamy vanilla Elegant spice depth Sweet fruit Caramel Barrel funk Breadiness Bland cream cheese Lemon Metallic Palate Apple crisp Tannic oak Ripe banana Bitter molasses Rich cherry Buttery frosting Exciting zest Vast complexity Caramel Banana bread Mint Christmas spices Lemon cookie Caramel Banana bread Finish Slightly thin Medium length Caramel & mint Oily, creamy Undulates long Vanilla & wine Funky, thin Medium length Mint & dry tannins Short and thin Vanilla yogurt Ginger beer Score 4/5 4.5/5 3/5 2.5/5 WRITTEN BY: NICK ANDERSON With nearly a decade of sipping experience, Nick Anderson brings a well-calibrated palate to his profound passion for the whiskey industry. Beginning in Irish whiskey before expanding into bourbon, rye, and beyond, he has long been taking the ephemeral observation of unspoken enjoyment and translating it into meaningful words. He is the owner and primary long-winded whiskey writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com , and he hopes you find resonance in the patient conveyance of an honest whiskey review.

What bottle got you into bourbon? I love asking this question as it tends to splinter into lovely micro-tangents and descriptive memories. More often than not, I've found that a bottle from the Weller lineup is the most popular answer, and for good reason—the brand has been around for a long time. Personally, I tried Weller Antique 107 early on in my whiskey exploration and remember thinking,  had it not been for Four Roses Small Batch Select , this would have been the bottle that got me hooked. I suppose Weller Antique 107 has honorary runner-up status. Yet, I often don't think of writing a proper review on it, which is often the case with sips I am comfortable with. This bottle has staying power, though, and one that makes me anxious when the fill level grows low with no backup on hand. That alone makes this a bottle deserving of all the attention, as much as any other new release . So, as a warm-up to the palate, here is a quick rundown of what makes the Weller lineup as traceable as the other Buffalos in the rick house. Feel free to groan or giggle; I did both while typing that sentence. The Weller brand was formed in 1849 by William Larue Weller, who is believed to be responsible for pioneering the use of wheat instead of rye in his mash bills. It's very likely that the wheated bourbon style (a staple in the Weller line) would later influence many other brands. William Larue Weller did more than play around with the grains in his mash bills, though. He also played a significant role in the early development of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, which makes sense since he was amongst the first to bottle bourbon. Yes, there was a pre-bottling era that we modern folk do not have to worry about, and we have WLW to thank, in part, for the ease in sipping standards of this day and age. Over the years, the Weller brand has undergone various ownership and production transformations, which is to be expected given its legacy. Still, the wheated mash bill remained central to the lineup. Weller joined forces with the prestigious Buffalo Trace distillery when the Sazerac Company acquired it in the 1990s (Sazerac also owns Buffalo Trace, in case that wasn't clear), and the rest is more pages in American Whiskey history. With hot debates about modern-day expressions and their quality at an all-time high, it is more important than ever to give gratitude to the lush history of bourbon and provide honest reviews of the whiskey we sip today. So, let's dive into a modern-day review of an old-school whiskey that continues to buzz like a bee in an endless garden of  weller- flowers. Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Whiskey Type:  Wheated Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Buffalo Trace "Wheated Mash Bill" Proof:  107 ° Age:   NAS (~6-8 years) Further identification:  This highly sought-after bottle in the Weller lineup was purchased in 2023 and has a suggested retail price of $52.99 Nose:  Sweet dark fruit leads the way, warm and inviting like jam spread over a toasted slice of wheat bread. A dish of unwrapped Werther's hard caramels sits near a flickering cinnamon candle as a kiss of baked apple wafts through the air. I am not-so-curiously craving a mug of hot apple cider while sitting out in the fading light of an early autumn evening. This is rich and classic, but as I sit longer with my glass, the flavors continue to develop in complexity—oodles of baking spice, gooey cherries bubbling in a pie dish, and a kiss of black pepper. I'm ready to taste this loveliness. After a few sips, the nose leads with stronger fruit tones, stewed and ready for all the Thanksgiving pies one could imagine. There's a hint of Madagascar vanilla and a to-go cup of Starbucks hot chocolate (IYKYK). The robust start to this nose does fall off a bit late in the glass, but complexity still abounds with store-bought cinnamon buns and cherry hard candy. It's classic, it's lovely, and it continues to evolve the longer I sip patiently through this tasting. It's remarkable, considering the number of times I've enjoyed this bottle. The empty glass smells like the bottom of a glass candy dish found in my grandparents' parlor room. Palate: Oh yes, this is velvet on my tongue. Luscious chunks of dark chocolate spread throughout as pops of cinnamon flit around like a butterfly floating effortlessly with the soft flap of thin wings. There's stone fruit, notably cherry, and a kiss of sauteed sliced plum bubbling in rich caramel sauce. I'm in a leather armchair, book in hand, as the light filtering through my window is fading, relaxed and engaged with all that surrounds me. The flavors are cherry sweet and cinnamon oak spicy, with a gentle and long-lasting finish. It's perfectly balanced from start to finish, incredibly approachable, and dangerously crushable. Late in the glass, sips continue their journey of sweetness and spice, but in a way that feels like the first time, even after a lengthy duration in the glencairn. The final sip is a testament to those pours that transcend the test of time. TL;DR: an approachable and high-caliber sip every time Rating:  4/5 ( Really good. I want one of these on my shelf. ) With classic bourbon notes and subtle complexity, it's hard to imagine this sip not being transformative for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and those just beginning their exploration. Weller Antique is like opening a familiar door to a slightly different decor every time; you know what to expect—great bourbon—but with fantastic tchotchkes waiting to be found. I happily share this bottle like I do a favorite book and get just as excited when my dear friends reveal what they like most. If you're on the hunt for a bottle, you can buy Weller Antique 107 here . WRITTEN BY: JES SMYTH W ith what started as a genuine curiosity for the “water of life,” fiction writer and published author Jes Smyth has nurtured her enthusiasm for whiskey ever since. From learning the vast history of whiskey making to celebrating the passion of the industry, she tastes each sip with intention and purpose while expressing the intricacies of whiskey in a relatable and heartfelt way. She is thrilled to be a contributing writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com  and hopes her words will resonate with those ready to explore the beautiful world of whiskey.

Today marks the one-year anniversary of joining Amongst The Whiskey as a contributing writer ! To commemorate the day, I thought I'd share two things I absolutely adore: writing and whiskey. Lucky for me, it didn't take long to come up with a bottle to cheers the occasion with. Lucky for you, I have a gripping tale of how Weller Special Reserve entered my life and the irreversible effects it's had on me since. For those curious about the Weller lineup (Buffalo Trace's wheated mash bill), whether some are worth the hunt , or where the name originated from (pretty cool bourbon history lives on in this brand), I highly recommend you check out the many articles available right here on AmongstTheWhiskey.com . For now, sit back, pour a dram you can sink into, and come along as I send us back in time to the year 2021. It was winter and cold—February cold (if you live in the Midwest, you know what that means). Grappling with a mad case of cabin fever (unprecedented given the times), I often found myself visiting liquor stores. Not for a re-up on the alcohol I had drunk too quickly, but to foster a new hobby, alongside adult coloring books, I had started during lockdown: exploring the wonderful world of American whiskey. I would later come to find out that many enthusiasts' origin stories began during lockdown. Another story for another time, perhaps. There I stood, wrapped in all the cold-weather gear, fluorescent lights buzzing overhead as I gazed appreciatively at rows upon rows of whiskey. I often felt transported looking at the names, labels, proofs, ages, mash bills, bottled at locations, and distilled by DSPs. The bottles could have been works of art, and the store a museum. I wasn't searching for anything in particular; instead, I was getting to know what was on display a little bit better. On this particular evening, a pretty green label with gold lettering had caught my eye. I'd never seen it before. It was a row up from the bottom shelf and appeared to have a screw top. I stepped forward to inspect it further when a fellow customer approached, wearing what could only be described as an Indiana Jones hat. "Have you had this one?" I asked because he was wearing an Indiana Jones hat, and I liked that. "I have. It's been a long time, but I highly recommend it," is what I believe he said, but let's be honest, this was several years ago now. I don't know if it was the hat, the cold, or an instinct that this bottle would become a comfort pour for years to come, but I grabbed one. And, after a moment's hesitation, Indy grabbed one too. And that was when a stranger's simple and easy recommendation further solidified my growing obsession with American whiskey. Inevitably, my palate has matured over the years and, as such, certain whiskeys that I once adored could now be considered drain pours. Weller Special Reserve (or Weller's Green , as my dad affectionately calls it) is one such bottle that has remained steadfast and true. So, without further ado, I'll dive into one of my favorite comfort pours . Company on Label:  Buffalo Trace Whiskey Type:  Wheated Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed Buffalo Trace wheated bourbon mash bill (>51% corn) Proof:  90 ° Age:   NAS MSRP: $29.99 (2025) Further Identification:  Purchased in 2024 for MSRP Nose: Soft and inviting, vanilla buttercream and cinnamon sugar waft effortlessly out of my glass. It's a hefty nose for the proof point, but with a silky aroma that many wheated bourbons are best known for. Swirling reveals melted caramel, and an overflowing dish of mixed summer berries sprinkled generously with table sugar absorbing into every nook of that top plump strawberry. There's also woodiness to the nose, transporting me to old fallen branches on a forest floor in desperate need of rain. After a few more appreciative sniffs, I think it's time for a sip! Returning to the nose, I can't help but compare what I find to what opening a book you've read several times already feels like; you know what to expect, and yet you're anticipating every word like it's the first. The aromas remain constant and true as the liquid disappears. The empty glencarin smells of ripe and fallen apples, pallet boards, and freshly packed hay bales. Palate:  Hello, sweetness! The fruit is front and center, specifically apples dipped in caramel sauce, before the flavors swing into a present but subtle black pepper quality. Another sip transforms the spice into cinnamon and sugar, the apple note still lacing throughout, and a dollop of vanilla cream dances across my tongue. The mouthfeel is agreeable for the proof, coating but not oversaturating my tongue. And while the complexities of this pour are anything but, the clear presence of those classic bourbon notes mingling together reminds me of spending time with old friends, laughing and sharing stories from days long past. My final sip excites with a pop of cream soda before the flavors sink into a warm and comfortable farewell. TL;DR: a pour you can sit down and get comfortable with Rating:  3.5/5 Good enough. There's something to enjoy here. From my first encounter with Weller Special Reserve to every pour since, it's been a steady, comforting presence. It doesn't shout for attention or prestige but embodies familiarity, and easy enjoyment—a bottle that delivers classic quality without pretense. And I truly believe everyone deserves a bottle like that on their shelf! Buy Weller Special Reserve WRITTEN BY: JES SMYTH W ith what started as a genuine curiosity for the “water of life,” fiction writer and published author Jes Smyth has nurtured her enthusiasm for whiskey ever since. From learning the vast history of whiskey making to celebrating the passion of the industry, she tastes each sip with intention and purpose while expressing the intricacies of whiskey in a relatable and heartfelt way. She is thrilled to be a contributing writer for AmongstTheWhiskey.com  and hopes her words will resonate with those ready to explore the beautiful world of whiskey.

It's time to talk about the whiskey that everybody has been going on about since it was first released. There seem to be two camps in the wide whiskey world. Those who love the whiskey for what it is and those who despise it for being priced the way it is. Almost nobody I have spoken to has disliked the whiskey inside. Most haven't tried it and just like to repeat what "they heard from a friend.". The ugly truth is that quite a few whiskey enthusiasts have admitted that it was just disappointing for all the hype the brand has carried and built over the years. Some have even postured that it's a cash grab for the distillery. The wheated mash bill from Willett is some of their rarest stock. Having gone to the distillery to pick a single barrel twice now, there was no time in which a wheated bourbon was available for us to sample. In discussions with some of Willett's incredibly small team, I've gathered that a majority of the good barrels that the distillery is producing today are going into their shelf offerings. I can wholeheartedly commit to my own opinion that Noah's Mill is one of the best products on just about any shelf today. So what the heck are we here for? Oh, right—to see if the whiskey is any good, because that's how I approach all my reviews. I don't consider value or adjust my score according to how I acquired a bottle. It's all about what's inside. Everyone's budget is different, so take the evaluation of the whiskey and apply your own 'value' lens. If a good whiskey is out of your price range, there are plenty of other 5/5 ratings for you to read through. As usual, this writeup is an amalgamation of several individual tastings that allow me to triangulate on the truth. Now let's get on with the show! Company on Label: Willett Distillery Whiskey Type: Bourbon Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed proportions of corn, wheat and malted barley Proof: 108° Age: 8 years Further identification: This black bottle with the purple foil was first released in the Summer of 2022 Nose: Corn fritters jump out of the well-rested glass upon first lifting it to my nose. Nosing deeper, I find darker tones of raspberry skins, raisin, and dry oak. A swirl of the glass unlocks black pepper, caramel nut brittle, and leather. Hints of cinnamon and nutmeg sizzle in the corners of the glass. Overall, the nose-feel is quite dry, with little complexity and a distinct lack of typical Willett character. Let's move onto a sip. Coming back to the nose shows off subtle barrel funk and more caramel tones. Nosing through late in the glass just shows off a prime example of classic Kentucky bourbon. Great barrel funk proliferates late in the glass. Floral perfume notes suddenly show up in the final throes of whiskey volatilization. The empty glass smells of chocolate, coffee, and caramel drizzle. Palate: At first sip, I find classic bourbon notes in light cherry skins, raisin, and caramel. Another sip layers in Funfetti frosting, plum, and many little hints of nondescript bready notes. An extended sip and swish shows off classic Willett bourbon with cinnamon and cherry dominating the array of flavors, but it's as though someone turned the volume knob down to about 3. This drinks well below 108 proof in an unfortunately lackluster delivery. Carefully picking through the notes closer to the bottom of the glass reveals hints of milk chocolate, vanilla wafers, and thick raspberry compote. My last sip is satisfyingly simple, with cherry, raspberry, and creamy caramel. TL;DR: Classic bourbon that's had most of its complexity blended out Rating: 3/5 ( Decent. I can go either way on it. ) Everything about this bourbon is enjoyable but unremarkable. If the Barrell Craft Spirits motto rings "blended to never blend in," one might describe this release as the polar opposite of that sentiment. While I love and respect the whole crew at Willett , I feel like the team bit off a bit more than they could chew with this blend. Ultimately, it feels like too many things have been mixed without consideration for making a functionally complete end product, but they have succeeded in making a mainstream, approachable blend at the very least.