Clear Creek Douglas Fir Brandy is one of the more interesting brandies out there. It's definitely not a must have bottle, but it actually works quite well in cocktails in small doses. I hadn't tried it on its own so while I didn't have high expectations, I came away pleasantly surprised. Off the bat you immediately get the pine and winter aromas. That also comes thru on the first sip, where you feel like you are transported to a forest, with mint and pine needles. Methanal lingers on the finish with just a touch of heat. I wouldn't exactly say this is great neat, but it also was an interesting diversion from the usual brandies. I can see this being a nice change of pace for a winter sipper, but the primary reason to get this bottle in my eyes is its use in cocktails. It adds complexity to a good number of winter style cocktails. It is a bit expensive and for something you probably won't drink a ton neat, nor use a lot of in cocktails, I can see someone passing on this, but it is unique and well made.
About this bottle
Clear Creek Douglas Fir Brandy is a seasonal product created by harvesting green buds from Douglas fir trees (also known as Oregon pine or Douglas spruce). These buds are then dropped into clear brandy and allowed to macerate. This now green brandy is re-distilled, but though this process will flavor the brandy, it will also become clear. More buds are collected and added and the maceration is repeated; the buds are removed a few weeks later. A touch of pear brandy is added before bottling. Sold in 375ml sized bottles.
How it tastes
Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 2 parsed reviews.
I was lucky enough to try this one, excellent.
Tastes like this
Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.
