Breaking & Entering Bourbon

A truly unique bourbon. It's reserved but in a luxurious manner. It reminds me of how American Single Malts can resemble diminished versions of fine Scotches. No single note really pops, yet wood and chocolate are definitely there alongside a hint of minerals and some toffee. The taste is slightly chewy, and while there's a touch of cinnamon, the spice level is minimal. I have to wonder if the same spirit was sampled by others. Vanilla is certainly present, and the deep yet sweet and muted taste provides a pleasant holiday aroma. There's a good deal happening, though not an abundance. Even with its shortcomings, I'd happily sip this anytime. If the flavors were just a bit bolder, this would be outstanding. The sweetness might be excessive for many, but it appeals to me. The aroma presents a distinct woody spice that complements some bitter rye, which is earthy rather than mineral-heavy. It has an herbal scent, similar to McKenna 10. The taste is thick but lighter in flavor and smoother than anticipated. Clove is prominent. The wood has a slightly damp character, but it's not overpowering. The sharp spice is pleasant without being overly aggressive. The deep woodiness is good, though it leans tannic without tasting strongly of leather (some leather is present). It could benefit from more sweetness and red fruit, along with less numbing from the clove. Nevertheless, there's a respectable complexity with rich barrel notes. This aligns more with my expectations for Garrison Brothers. It's an intriguing and fairly pleasurable drink, though not an immediate masterpiece. It also doesn't venture as far into uncharted territory as St. George Breaking & Entering American Whiskey. The flavor is good, not great, and it possesses reasonable depth.

Considering they are unable to disclose anything, much of the enjoyment comes from trying to identify the origin of this spirit. My personal guess is "all over the place," as I detect notes I connect with Barton, Old Forester, Beam, and Heaven Hill. The spirit itself is acceptable, but the low proof and cost make it unremarkable. Notes include custard, banana, slightly charred corn, faint musty vegetable, mild rye, citrus zest, cherry soda, spearmint, and clove. The taste shifts between sweet and dry, leading after the sip to an intriguing dry, herbal, menthol/eucalyptus quality.

Pine, vanilla, and nutmeg on the nose. The palate is mostly just sweetness. A cocoa or chocolate finish with some caramel, and very little burn, which is unsurprising given the 87 proof. It's adequate, and quite interesting that its goal is to showcase successful blending, but I don't anticipate purchasing it again.

Pleasant fruity aroma that carries through the initial taste. Incredibly smooth sipper, dangerously mellow with no heat, which could be positive or negative, but still lots of character in this blend. Overall, a top-tier bourbon for me; I'll need to pick up another bottle next time I see it since I don't encounter it often.

This bourbon tastes like a combination of Woodford Reserve Select and Double Barrel. You get the spice of a younger bourbon along with toasted barrel characteristics like bananas foster. I thought the good flavors disappeared quickly and the finish had a significant burn.

The aroma suggests banana bread; indeed, I can detect it. Sweet with an almost floral character on the palate, featuring undertones of cinnamon and spice. The finish is smooth and gentle. A very pleasant experience overall.