The nose is very rich with sweet, creamy oak, with a touch of toastiness. There are hints of brown sugar, smoke, marshmallow, and overall some boldness that can't quite be pinpointed. It comes across as very oaky, but there are some unique nuances along with it. The palate is full, chewy, slightly dry, and with a fruity oakiness. It is wildly smooth and not overpowering considering its age. There's almost a vintage funk, or it even reminds you of Chinkapin Oak. It feels like drinking a dessert wine that is oak dominant, along with that kick of creamy toastiness. It was quite unique for a bourbon, exceptionally delicious. The finish is long, a bit spicy, and with a heaping of marshmallowy oak lingering in the mouth. It is big and impactful, and perfectly made.
Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection 23 Year Giant French Oak Barrel
5.00 Exceptional
Whiskey American Whiskey Kentucky 23 Year 45% ABV
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About this bottle
This whiskey, from Buffalo Trace's Experimental Collection, was released in 2012 as part of the 11th batch, focusing on giant French oak barrels. Distilled in May 1989 from BT Rye Mash #2 (a bourbon mash bill), this whiskey was aged in a used French oak barrel. The barrel, at 135 gallons, was considered "giant" by American standards, as typically 53-gallon barrels are used, and it had previously held an unspecified wine. The barrel was treated to a #3 char. After twenty-three years and one month of aging, during which 46.8% evaporated, the barrel was emptied and bottled in June 2012 at 45% ABV.
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