Blood Oath Bourbon Pact No. 3

Initially, the aroma was quite faint, but the taste and finish were still engaging. After some time and a few pours, it has definitely improved. The nose presents typical bourbon notes like vanilla and brown sugar, with subtle oak. The addition of a Cabernet Sauvignon finish brings a mild hint of raspberry and other red fruits that complement the other flavors well. The palate is rich and has a good texture, with the 49.3% ABV being acceptable, though a higher proof wouldn't be unwelcome. The initial taste mirrors classic bourbon with vanilla, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon. The finish features pleasant oak that isn't overly bitter. The finish is gentle, medium in length, and warming, with a quick burst of vanilla and cinnamon fading into oak and a hint of clove. It leaves a nice sensation that even settles in the chest. Overall, it succeeds as a wine-finished bourbon, offering a novel experience without drastically altering the character. It's around a 3.75 to 4 out of 5 for me. Considering the price and my enjoyment of new tastes and wine, I don't regret the purchase now that it has opened up. If you appreciate both wine and bourbon and have the funds, I recommend trying it. If you're hesitant or haven't liked wine-finished bourbon before, try a sample at a bar, ensuring the bottle has been open for a while.

Brand: Blood Oath Edition: Pact No. 3 Date tasted: 2/4/2017 Type: Whiskey (Kentucky Straight Bourbon with Secondary Maturation in Cabernet Sauvignon Barrels) Proof: 98.6 (49.3% ABV) Age: No Age Statement Mashbill: Not disclosed Source: Sourced Bottler: Luxco, River City Distilled Products, St. Louis, Mo Cost: $100 Appearance: Dark Amber/Medium Copper Nose: Leather, Vanilla, Brown Sugar, a hint of Oak, Blackberry Palate: Sweet, Warm, Rich, Smooth, Vanilla, Creamy Caramel, subtle dark grape-like fruitiness in the background Finish: Medium-Long, Warm, Oak, Clove, Dry Personal Score: 7.25 out of 10 Comments: Overall, I enjoyed this pour; it presents as a solid, traditional bourbon with an added touch of fruitiness. The palate was particularly pleasing, with the classic vanilla and caramel flavors complemented by a hidden dark berry/grape taste. Towards the finish, it reminded me of Welch’s Grape Juice. This is a good bourbon for sipping neat, or if you prefer it chilled, use whiskey stones or a single ice cube. If you find it priced as high as $200, it might be best to skip it, but at the suggested retail price of $99, you'll likely be happy adding it to your collection.

Complex wood and smoke notes. Hints of Cabernet barrels impart a subtle wine flavor. Good texture and quite smooth considering the strength. At full strength, there's a slight sharpness at the end. Adding a few drops of water reduces the wine flavor and seems to slightly increase the sharpness. However, it also appears to meld the flavors more effectively. Overall, I would still prefer to drink it neat.

Allow this dram some time to breathe. The flavors become more prominent after a period in the glass. On the nose: Caramel, vanilla, strong floral notes, and black pepper (likely from the cab casks). On the palate: Spicy rye with a hint of sweet caramel and apricot. It goes down very smoothly.

Price: $99 This bourbon was exceptionally well-balanced. It's among the best I've had, with a nose of sweet, spicy, and oak notes. The palate is rich, mellow, and smooth, complemented by a nice finish. Definitely a purchase in my opinion, a great addition to a collection.

Nose: Sweet caramel and herbal aromas with a hint of Mexican spice. Palate: Red fruit, creamy vanilla, and a touch of spice. Finish: Lingering oak notes but not particularly remarkable. Lacks the expected cabernet finish.