13th Colony Double Oaked Bourbon Whiskey

Batch 2, 136.8 proof. The nose is rich with creamy oak and undertones of hot baking spices. Significant alcohol heat necessitates caution during nosing, but careful assessment reveals subtle, rich nuances. Faint floral notes, ripe fruit, hints of smoke, and brown sugar are also detectable. There is considerable complexity, which will become more apparent as the alcohol diminishes. The palate is dry yet opulent and viscous, beginning with an intense wave of creamy oak and caramel, accompanied by a powerful burst of peppery spice. This spirit benefits from aeration, but with each sip, smooth notes of brown sugar and vanilla cake can still be extracted. Extended breathing time mellows the spiciness, reducing it to a spicy cherry syrup that harmonizes beautifully with its creaminess, while also revealing notes of toasted marshmallow. The finish is long and viscous, leaving a pleasant richness in the mouth. The initial warmth persists for some time but is perfectly counterbalanced by the abundant creamy oak, which also lingers.

Initial review from the bottle's first pour. Nose: Rich, with caramelized brown sugar on the pan and a chocolate bar. Faint dusty oak at the end. Taste: An absolute explosion of flavor, where to start? The mouthfeel is incredible. Notes of root beer, cherry, and spice. It has typical bourbon characteristics, but amplified significantly. Finish: Toasted oak, baking spice, dark chocolate bar, espresso! Overall: An exceptional bourbon, remarkably unique. Not for daily drinking, but justifies its premium price (both suggested retail and secondary market). Scored 9 out of 10 on the t8ke scale.

The flavor matches the dark, rich color and smell of this whiskey. Dark, rich sugars, molasses, brown sugar, and oak are so intensely rich, it's beyond description. The aftertaste is lengthy and full of flavor. At 135.3 proof, it definitely gives you a strong Kentucky embrace and my lips get tingly if I take too big a sip. Honestly, I wouldn't mind if my dentist used this to numb me for procedures. You know, it wouldn't bother me at all.

This is a very dark whiskey! It reminds me of Dovetail, but if it were aged in oak instead of rum. And yes, it's potent... which is understandable at a staggering 135.3 proof! It is absolutely delicious with a small addition of water. I'm pleased I acquired some. It's definitely not an everyday drink (especially considering the price), but it's something special. This experience has made me open to trying 13th Colony again in the future.

The aroma is amazing, the taste is dark (molasses) and bold... perhaps it could have more fruit flavors, the finish is lengthy but a little harsh... a lingering bitter coffee taste diminished the score for me. A fantastic experience, but certainly not for daily consumption.

This coats your palate from the initial sip. I could detect the flavor descriptors with every taste. It's one of the rare bourbons that engages all senses on the nose and palate every time I try it. It ranks among the finest bourbons I've ever encountered.