Trail's End 8 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished With Oregon Oak

A let down. Interesting nose. Reminded me at first of Willet Pot Still Reserve, but then picked up peppermint and bubblegum qualities as it opened up with a touch of cinnamon and anise. Really reminds me of of Bazooka Joe gum. Taste was light, but okay. May have been because I tried this after some stronger stuff (like Booker's 2018-4). In any case, there's that Bazooka Joe again. Also, some light herbal notes, wood tannin, and dried fruit (lightly apricot?). Sadly, I consider this a waste of $30-40. IMHO, could have been better spent on or applied towards something substantially better.

I bought this on a whim (as usual), when Elmer T Lee was STILL nowhere to be found. I live in Oregon, so this spirit is widely available...The bourbon is sourced from Kentucky and re-bottled in Oregon white oak barrels...I really was surprised at the great taste and smoothness of this bourbon...A great value at $34.94 for 750ml. I RECOMMEND this spirit to anyone wanting to enjoy a mellow sipper with touch of spice.

Batch No. 2, revisited after sitting half empty for around a year. The bazooka Joe, anise qualities have lessened. In it's place, I get more of a light creme brulee. Maybe, again, it's because I had this after having a number of other tastings. But the flavors have definitely improved. My only complaint is the lightness of the flavor and shortness of the finish. No burn, even with my nose in the glass.

Visited the tasting Room in Hood River, OR and bought Batch 004. This is an 8YR age-stated KY Straight Bourbon Whisky finishes with Oregon Oak staves. This tastes like a toasted barrel bourbon. Very smooth and a classic bourbon profile with a subtle woody toasted note, which reminds me of toasted graham crackers almost. Very enjoyable, unique bourbon! 7.7/10

Private select Westmoreland liquor. Barrel 994; 67%abv Nose: raisin, dark caramel, cinnamon. Palate: big and sweet. Plum, dark brown sugar, bits of dark chocolate. Dark oak. A decent heat undiluted, still doesn't taste like 67%. Sweet vanilla. Finish: corn and grain. Medium short

I was pleasently surprised by this Oregon finished Bourbon. It is spicy and full but smooth and flavorful. The aroma is sweet and airy, with a great feel in the mouth. It is an easy to drink bourbon with a great easy finish. I am a fan! It might deserve 5 stars...