Kentucky 10 Wheated Small Batch Bourbon

[11.21.22] Prepping for an MS student defense tomorrow. Was looking for a sipper while I read because my Monkey Shoulder ran out. This is not a sipper. And I'm gonna need more whiskey for this thesis. Picked this bottle up last weekend when at NAILE. So many whiskeys come out of KY now that I didn't want to waste time buying things I can get later (and Weller was sold out across town). Label is deceiving because there's nothing 10 about this but the name. This is a raw, 2-year-old still cutting its teeth. Imagine taking Evan Williams single barrel's raw woody taste like you inhaled a woodshop. And then picture you took used sandpaper from that woodshop and ran it over your tongue. Yep, that's it, the greenwood bite that obscures all the other flavors in the profile. There are hints of vanilla, some rye spice too, but it's all buried in a product not ready to come to market but probably just paying the bills. Reminds me of Middle West when they opened. There is potential, raw potential.

Appearance: Rich amber in the glass with inviting warmth. Nose: Gentle waves of caramel and vanilla upfront, supported by soft oak and a touch of honeyed grain. Palate: Exceptionally smooth from the first sip. The wheat in the mash bill brings a soft, rounded texture, balancing notes of toffee, light brown sugar, and subtle baking spice. There’s just enough sweetness to complement the oak without overwhelming it. Finish: Medium and graceful, with lingering hints of vanilla cream and a touch of warm spice.

Local liquor store touted this as being a good substitute for Weller (Special Reserve I’m guessing). Since WSR is nothing special, this is a good Wheated substitute at a reasonable price. All smoothness with little depth of flavor.

Nose: very sweet, cherry start. Carmely finish, smooth & easy on the nose. Palate: Sweet right up front, hazelnutty, with a wave of heat that eventually subsides. Finish: brown sugar & warmth that keeps the mouth watering.

Thats funny. I got hit hit with the same sales line from my liquir store. Its ok but it is funny now how brands are sold. “Its just as good as ….”

Ok but not great, light flavor falls off pretty quickly. Good for the bogo price (2 for 36)