Blue Run Reflection I Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Appearance: A lighter Amber hue. Swirling reveals smooth, slightly thick legs descending the glass. Smell: A subtle aroma; it took time to detect notes of grass and wheat. Taste: Sweet and spicy, confirming the bottle's claim of a "Meticulously Balanced Sweet And Spicy Bourbon." Later sips reveal hints of vanilla and warm, soft bread with sweet cream butter. The rye initially complements the sweeter notes but then moves to the back and roof of the mouth, creating a noticeable warmth. Finish: The lingering sensation is the rye's warmth at the back of the mouth. The spice and sweetness have faded, leaving only a gentle warmth. Overall, a pleasant bourbon, though not worth the $106.00 price tag. For collectors, its smoothness and "sweet & spicy" profile might make it desirable.

Cola sweetness, cocoa, and a velvety texture. It mellows into thick molasses and a hint of nuttiness. A subtle spicy rye note in the aftertaste, creating excellent harmony. Evokes Four Roses. November 8, 2024. Sampling this again after some time, comparing it directly with a Wyoming Whiskey NP edition. It makes me suspect this mix might include some Wyoming Whiskey. What do you think? Revisiting May 2, 2025 Smell: the cocoa is still present, reminiscent of corn-based cola Taste: initial sweetness, butterscotch candy, remains nutty with a finish of spicy rye and baking spices. Truly delightful!

Ignoring the cost, it's a fantastic bourbon. It's sweet, finishes smoothly, and provides just enough bite to be noticeable without being unpleasant. However, for the price of one bottle, I could get two bottles of a different brand that are just as good. Purely based on taste, it's a very good bourbon. I share it with friends who haven't tried it, and they usually adore it until they learn the price. I received it as a gift; I doubt I'd purchase it myself.

Nose: Baking spice, wheat or pumpernickel bread, with some funk towards the end. Palate: Also has some funk, is thin, and perhaps a touch of spearmint. Finish: Short, and it feels like it drinks below its stated proof. Overall: Tastes significantly different from my initial pour of this bottle. I actually preferred the first tasting; I'm a little let down this time. I do love the bottle's design, though (my wife does too).

Nose: Buttery oatmeal cookies. Body: The flavors are light, but the mouthfeel is substantial. Butter and baking spices linger, reminiscent of oatmeal cookies. My partner says waffles. Finish: An oily finish, the buttery mouthfeel persists for a long time, eventually revealing some grassy notes. This grew on me, but I'm unsure about the price.

Blind Test: Blue Run Reflection 1 Smell: caramel, very subtle. Palate: caramel, molasses, quite sugary, with a touch of peppery heat. Aftertaste: that caramel flavor intensifies on the finish, becoming peppery cinnamon. Conclusion: though lacking intricacy, this is delicious and approachable. I'd hazard a guess at a proof in the 90s. Score: 3.75/5