Kings County Peated Bourbon

Batch 22 - found this 'clearanced' for $29.99 (750ml), so figured "why not", realizing this isn't necessarily a 'mixer' if I don't enjoy it neat. Anyway, here we go... Ok, nose is already a huge surprise...I mean, there's some earthy peaty notes, but it is not a smoky nose...a skosh of campfire, but plenty of sweet, maple-like notes, brown sugar, baking spices, caramel, and a splash of vanilla. I mean, I'd be confused if I had this blind, but I certainly wouldn't jump to it being a peated mashbill. Flavor is more smoky, but still, not egregiously so. Its a sweet and smoky ride, but more bourbon-y notes come through...oak, more of the maple and brown sugar, some hay/grassy flavors interspersed, and a bit of spice on the finish. Unique pour Finish is shorter than average...not terribly so, but enough to detract a bit...again, its like the bunny hills on a roller coaster, but the ride is a bit too short. Regardless, exceeded expectations. Would compare this to some Balcones/Garrison Bros products I've had in the past, but better, as the smoky notes compliment, rather than overpower this pour. That being said, I like a good Islay, but if I'm in the mood for an Islay, I'm probably not reaching for a "peated bourbon", so the nuance here is appreciated. Not sure if I'd pay the typical sticker price, but I'll probably back this up if I can get one more for $30, as I doubt I'll run into anything like this again for a while

Assessed in a Glencairn spirits nosing glass. Aroma - Neat - Fudge, gentle oak, graininess, black tea leaf and a VERY restrained peat smoke (think grilled meat). Adding a splash of water . . . This really has developed it. Huge hit of fudge, mild custard, brown sugar and burnt twigs. Taste - Neat - Absolute knockout. Prominent old leather, cigar tobacco, dark chocolate and a very refined smokiness (think smoked Salmon, not Islay scotch). Adding a splash of water . . . This has expanded on the sweet notes, now getting some vanilla custard, but unfortunately has also stifled the leather and tobacco, which I prefer. Final thoughts - This is absolutely stellar. I’m giving a score of 4.75 out of 5.00 because this is so damned interesting. I love smoky flavors and while I am a fan of Islay’s, I was really worried they were going to just basically make an Islay scotch that can be legally called a bourbon here. Not the case at all. The peat is used with such restraint here that it just really accentuates those savory tones in a bourbon like woods, leathers and tobaccos that much more. I DO prefer this one without water. I hope to see other bourbon’s try this technique as it’s created something very unique and in its own league in my opinion.

This is one of those bottles that you see for a long time on the shelf and aren’t too interested, and then when you are it’s disappeared everywhere. Was able to find a bottle today and it’s quite expensive for only 375ml, but the hunt is over so maybe it was worth it. The nose first brings musty, wet hay and corn husks, but after a little time there is sticky toffee, molasses and vanilla. The final layer shows just a hint of citrus and some malt. Your classic bourbon this is not. Palate begins with more damp grass, and a light handed peat, but not smokey, just earthy and vegetal. It transitions in more traditional American flavours with the brown sugar, orange and baking spice. Unfortunately it’s just not oily enough (or high enough proof) to carry those flavours very long.. a tad on the thin side. With that said finish is short, with some dry woody notes and a little malt crying for attention. Overall it’s good but not great, and for 20 bucks less you can snag the WR Kentucky Straight Malt and have a similar profile minus the peat, and get all 750ml. However there is something to be said for finally getting your hands on something you’ve been looking for, so no regrets here at all.

Smells of maple syrup, honey, and bourbon. Ooh...a hint of green apple and caramel! Yes, bourbon, but with a sultry smoked peat that's not overpowering. I like that the bourbon is not THE dominant sense. A little caramel and black pepper at the end with sugar syrup. After a few minutes the empty glass smells like an unlit, chocolate infused cigar. And there's that little green apple... Amazing! Looking at the other tastings I see flavors all over the place, which is interesting, but that means it could have a broad appeal. Rating based on neat sipping.

A very interesting release from King's County. The nose is very misleading; pure maple with a little honey. The taste, however, is quite remarkable. Rather aggressive upfront, it gives way to a beautiful blend of peat and maple, with hints of vanilla. Neither the peat nor the maple overpower your tongue. The finish is nice and long, a fresh apple pie, smoked by maple wood. A good introduction into the world of peat, but also easily enjoyed by fans of peat.

it has some soft sweetness on the nose. there's a depth to it I can not place. maybe light peat and fresh leather. after a sip, I get sweetness. Fruits. The lightest of spice. Has some nice, unique complexity. Let it sit on you for a bit and you'll get a dash of peat. Overall, a very delicious offering. If they offered 750s at $50, it'd be on my bar consistently. At 42 for a 300mL, I'll keep this as a 'save for special occasions' dram. Worth having around!