291 Small Batch Colorado Bourbon

The number 291 holds significance for the distillery, referencing both a pioneering photography gallery and the owner's former dorm room. Distillery 291 Small Batch Bourbon shares a profile with its barrel proof counterpart. The aroma presents notes of charred Aspen wood, orange peel, and a hint of aged oak, evoking the sensation of sitting by a dying campfire with orange marmalade on toast. Vanilla becomes more pronounced after some time in the glass, which I find reassuring. This expression offers a gentler wave of honeyed baking spice and pepper compared to the Barrel Proof. While savory notes are present, they integrate more harmoniously with the aspen-oak character. The finish is of medium length, with a slight tingle on the tongue, a subtle citrus zest, and the prominent wood element at the forefront. Comparing this bottling to the Barrel Proof involves weighing nuances; some aspects excel here while others are more prominent in the higher proof version. I favor this bottling's alcohol content for immediate enjoyment, though serious bourbon enthusiasts might prefer the Barrel Proof for experimental purposes or a more intense experience.

Considering the high praise for the 291 product line, I was really anticipating enjoying this bottle. Sadly, the Aspen wood was too prominent. The aroma is like maple syrup with a subtle woody undertone. On the palate, the Aspen flavor is intense, overpowering everything else besides a faint molasses taste. The finish is entirely Aspen. My sense is that there's a great bourbon beneath the Aspen, but it's completely masked by the dominant finishing staves.

The initial aroma is spicy with an almost pine-like quality. A few minutes later, the aroma shifts to herbal tea and oak. The palate is similar, with an added touch of mint, and concludes with a barely perceptible tart blueberry. Overall, quite unique and worth trying!

From the Advent 2018 release. The nose has plums, abundant spice, and apricots. It's enjoyable and distinct. On the second taste, my initial impression holds true. I find it appealing and would choose it again for a special occasion when enjoying a drink alone at a bar.

The taste is superior to the aroma. The Aspen staves impart a unique quality to this finished bourbon. It's a good alternative if you've been drinking Buffalo Trace recently.

Intensely harsh. Likely loaded with corn. It reminds me of untaxed liquor. Diluted significantly with water, it becomes palatable. Perhaps a faint sugary note is present.