Bardstown Bourbon Co. Discovery Series #6

Every release in the Discovery series offers something distinct, and this particular bottling is among the most unique bourbons I have experienced, even beyond the Discovery line. I have previously enjoyed bottlings from Batches 2 and 4, with Batch 4 being exceptionally memorable. However, Batch 6 presents an apple fruit characteristic that I find quite striking. While cherry notes are commonly mentioned in bourbon descriptions, apple is less frequent. It is complemented by a pleasant spice and oak foundation that enhances the apple profile. The 111 proof is also appealing, and it drinks wonderfully! I am eager to observe its development over time, given the well-aged blend of bourbons within this bottle. I will provide further tasting notes in a few weeks. A special thanks to a good friend who surprised me by purchasing this bottle for me during a shopping trip. He is a wonderful person and friend!

Nose: Very fruity aromas dominate, with initial notes of strawberry, raspberry preserves, and caramel candies. Following are notes of candied orange, donut glaze, and baking spices, all underscored by oak. Palate: The initial taste is very fruity, with strawberry Pop-Tart, cream, and simple syrup. Mid-palate reveals candied orange, allspice, and subtle oak. The texture is viscous and rich. Finish: The finish is warming with baking spices and presents a unique and pleasant oddity of strawberry and oak. It lingers for a medium to long duration. Overall Score: 9.1/10

Aroma: all the usual suspects are present. vanilla, caramel, leather, and brown sugar. Taste: Initially sweet like vanilla candy, similar to vanilla taffy. Transitions to a caramel candy coating with some tobacco notes to finish. I'm very fond of this flavor profile. The finish lingers in your chest, providing a long, comforting sensation. Summary: I received this as part of a sample box from a distillery. I've seen this bottle priced at $135 in stores. I will likely never purchase a bottle because of the expense. It is certainly a very good pour.

Aroma: not detecting much…some red fruit sweetness, sweet bread or perhaps a glazed donut Palate: powdered donut but slightly spicy, toasted bagel Finish: lingers or maybe I have indigestion Overall: I appreciate their efforts at Bardstown. This is a decent bottle but pricey. I'm hopeful their prices will decrease as they continue to develop and expand production. I will continue to purchase their bottles when I encounter them. I like the clarity on the label.

The nose is initially dominated by oak and tobacco, presenting as spicy and dry with minimal sweetness. Adding a bit of water reveals a cereal note. The first taste brings spice, but also features honeycomb and brown sugar, as the sweetness absent from the aroma emerges. The water enhances the flavors, introducing maraschino cherries and a woody finish. It's intense yet intricate. Subsequent sips reveal hints of leather, cinnamon, and spearmint.

The nose is sweet and spicy, with notes of caramel, toffee, and barrel wood. The palate is quite intricate, featuring creme brûlée and more caramel, with undertones of currants and red apple, leading to a hot finish. A few drops of water smooth the finish's sharp edges, concluding the sip with a warm mouthfeel of vanilla and pine. Further sips reveal leather, the toffee from the nose, and even a subtle hint of licorice.