Blue Note Juke Joint Straight Bourbon (93 Proof)

While traveling out of state, I explored shops beyond California, seeking new finds. Blue Note Juke Joint had always piqued my curiosity, but it's unavailable locally. Spotting it on a shelf in Connecticut, I immediately purchased it! Appearance: Medium golden amber Smell: Typical Bourbon aroma of oak, with a minor sting in the nasal passage from alcohol, though not excessive. It's a familiar scent, reminiscent of many bottles previously experienced, though difficult to precisely identify. Taste: (Consumed with ice) It begins with a spicy sweetness. Once again, this profile is very familiar to me, aligning perfectly with the aroma. As it goes down, there's a warmth exceeding what one might expect from a 93-proof spirit, but this sensation quickly diminishes with subsequent sips. As the ice melts slightly, a hint of bitter (or tart?) cherry emerges. There's an indistinct sweetness to this spirit. Upon finishing the second serving, I detected a strong corn flavor, comparable to the taste of "Fritos corn chips." Quite interesting... Aftertaste: Likely considered short. The spiciness is the most prominent characteristic, accompanied by notes of oak, spice, and corn. It leaves a slightly dry sensation. My assessment might not sound overwhelmingly positive, but I did enjoy it. It's a respectable drink for its cost. It falls into the category of, "I would gladly drink it again, but likely wouldn't repurchase." It's simply too commonplace to warrant a place on my shelf when numerous other "good" bottles are more accessible and potentially more affordable. At best, it's "good"; at worst, "unremarkable." Updated 5/17/24: Enjoying some tonight alongside E.H. Taylor Single Barrel highlights a stark contrast. This Blue Note falls significantly short compared to the E.H. Taylor, representing two entirely different categories. I'm detecting a distinct, unusual "medicinal" note, similar to one I previously disliked in the Heavens Door Ascension bourbon. Comparing spirits side-by-side reveals one's preferences and what one can do without. I'm finding myself increasingly reluctant to try new bottles, only to confirm that sticking with known excellent options is sufficient.

After sampling the Crossroads, I had the opportunity to try this as well. Given my dissatisfaction with the Crossroads, I had low expectations for this 100 proof to 93 proof offering. The aroma was unremarkable. Some vanilla and a slight ethanol presence. The taste was not unpleasant. The palate was simple. You encountered some sweetness, toffee, caramel, and a touch of ethanol. Nothing revolutionary, but tasty enough for a second sip. The finish was brief. More caramel and ethanol for me. Nothing truly stood out, which was disappointing as I always appreciate a good bourbon finish. Overall, this was adequate. For $25, it's an easily drinkable bourbon and could work well in an Old Fashioned. I wouldn't sip it neat but might use it in a mixed drink.

Purchased this on sale for $44.99. Deep amber color and the label says "uncut" and "unfiltered". Opened the bottle, and the initial aroma is like apple cider vinegar or a Dickel sour mash. Over ice, the aroma is "clean" and reminds me of that green Palmolive dish soap. The first taste is surprisingly rich and smooth, nearly honey sweet, but high expectations are dashed by a peppery young bite, its sting proclaiming its 121 proof. The first half of each sip is a 7 out of 10, the finish is a 6 out of 10. The more my mouth adjusts to the burn, the sweeter it gets. Of all the flavors that use the word "honey," this one is the most accurate. Overall, very, very good. This one will be chosen frequently.

The aroma is light with a mild ethanol scent and some nuttiness (perhaps pecan?). The palate offers classic bourbon flavors like caramel and oak. Its richness is impressive considering the price. There's a moderate burn on the finish. Overall, I believe this entry-level blue note expression offers excellent value for its price point. It's young and has some burn, but the flavor is solid. It's great on the rocks and could also work well in a cocktail. The older 9-10 year blue notes are superior, but they cost about twice as much.

Aroma: Bright floral notes appear initially, softening to vanilla and berries – pleasant but unremarkable. Taste: More floral and herbal notes are present, with a slight touch of spice – it strongly resembles a rye. Finish: The spicy and herbal notes linger briefly at the end, which concludes quite rapidly – short and unsatisfying. Overall: I wasn't particularly impressed; it seemed somewhat undecided in its character.

This Tennessee whiskey is worth trying. The aroma is quite subdued in terms of tasting notes. However, on the palate, you get dark cherries, chocolate, and spice when you roll it around. The 93 proof results in a short, dry finish with hints of orange peel and white pepper. Enjoy.