Broken Barrel Small Batch Bourbon (Previous Packaging Discontinued)

The spirit is sourced. So if you're a spirit snob, that may put you off. The sourced spirit is only 1 year old before it goes to the finisher. Nose: fruit cocktail. Cherries from a cherry pie. Palate: Significant influence from the Oloroso staves. French apple pie. Finish: Long-lasting. Port wine. Although it technically is a bourbon... This is a budget version of Redbreast 12 year. I'd really like to do a blind taste test between the two. This is a value spirit. By value, I don't mean cheaply made. I mean it's fantastic for the price. You can't tell that it's young.

The aromas are a mix of sweet and oak, with a subtle citrus note. First taste: full-bodied, almost syrupy. The oakiness comes across as woodiness rather than smoke. The burn arrives much later, accompanied by a slight lemon and maple flavor. The balance is off, with too much tartness countering the supposed smoothness from the staves, which I didn't notice much. It's enjoyable, yes, but not quite what I had anticipated.

I am amazed by how good this is. This offers excellent value. It does not taste cheap, quite the opposite. For the price, it should not be this intricate. It has a cherry flavor profile but comparable spice to a Knob Creek. It's 70% but not overly corn-flavored. It balances heat with a smooth body. Great value, a staple to keep on hand.

Nose: musty boiled peanuts. Light and sweet. Mouthfeel: peanut. Light and cool on the palate. There's a light sweetness to it that reminds me of a PB&J.

Rough Might work as a mixer, but neat or on the rocks it is unpleasant Unfortunately I had high expectations

The pure alcohol was a bit too aggressive on the nose and palate. Otherwise, it would have received a higher score.