This is a sourced product produced by MGP/LDi in Indiana that is "scouted" and then aged at Smooth Ambler. It's no secret that this is their method and they are more than happy to talk about it which is commendable. This is a particular small batch product of theirs. I've gone back to revisit and refresh this review with another tasting.
The taste is spicy with good cinnamon and black pepper notes, along with honey, vanilla, pipe tobacco, and oak. The finish is long, spicy, and smooth. Excellent!
Quite mild on the nose for 99 proof: dry oak, light honey, crisp corn. It all fires up in the mouth, a thick wash of hot oak and corn—attic whiskey—white pepper, and a tongue-crinkling woodiness leading to a drying finish that leaves you thirsty and swallowing as it fades.
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House Review
Nose:
Very sweet, lots of vanilla, sugar, ice cream cone type cookie notes. Cinnamon and a little oaky clove, but very much a leaner into the sweet category. A lot of corn syrupy notes here which I think is the culprit.
Taste:
Sugar and maple. Originally, I thought the proof was overpowering but that was definitely my virgin palate. Sweet and sugary, almost vegetal and corn heavy. Its complex but leans towards the sweet side with a lot less oak influence than expected for the age.
Finish:
Medium but complex and relatively gentle. The proof is there but its not punishing. Just a nice sweet departure (literally)
Overall:
This is a fine dram, especially at the price. Although I'm not taking price into account, its worth noting that this is a great value since it can be had for $45 or so where I'm from. It's no bargain like the Eagle, but its still very reasonable. The flavors are strong and complex and there aren't any major flaws to speak of. For that, I'll give this a Rank 6.
Score:
85
By t8ke
Our in house critic rates spirits on a scale of 0-10 (10 best) and is aggregated the same as external sources
