Rieger's Monogram Straight Bourbon Whiskey Oloroso Sherry Cask (2022 Edition)

Since I’ve only seen one review anywhere on this and it wasn’t very good I wanted to provide another perspective in case any is looking at purchasing. This is one of the most unusual bourbons I’ve ever had and I see how this is a love it or hate it thing. In fact, I could give this anywhere from a 2.5 to 4.5 rating depending on the day, so I settled on 4. I would guess if you don’t like old sherry you won’t like this. The 100 year botas has a huge influence. From the woody, almost musty, sweet nose to the earthy, sherry-laden finish. But in-between is a sweet, cinnamon, wonderfully complex but subtle palate that reminds me a bit of Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection Tawny Port. A little less time in the botas would probably have made this a great bourbon. I like the palate so much it redeems the over earthiness of the nose and finish.

The hefty mahogany oak nose I’ve come to expect from Rieger, with some cherry vanilla powdered sugar sweetness. Jelly doughnut may be a bridge too far but it’s close. I immediately hope this somewhat pricey whiskey won’t be overly sweet. Palate is almond, cherry, vanilla with plenty of oak and sugar. The sugar wavers on the line between confectioner’s and brown. I am now leaning confectioner’s sugar…which causes me to revise the almond to almond bark. Alas, this is another sweet whiskey. I am not a sweet whiskey fan but maybe you are. Finish is tannic and a bit abrupt, as if apologizing for the whiskey pastry i have been subjected to. Disclaimer: sweetness slightly exaggerated as I finished my pour without complant. This is good stuff. But i’m ok not having bought a bottle.

I was not sure at first but I ended up loving this. It’s expensive but unique and memorable