Drinking this neat. First pour. I acquired this to observe Bull Run's evolution since their separation from MGP. I recently reviewed a 2019 12-year MGP finished in Pinot Noir casks, so now I'm keen to taste a true mash bill from Bull Run, originating from the watershed. Immediately, I was met with banana bread, which I genuinely enjoy. It also provides a pleasant nuttiness, akin to bar nuts, along with cloves, inspiring thoughts of baking banana bread to complement this pour. Delving deeper, I detect notes of apple and honey. The 25% rye is certainly apparent, as I perceive brine and citrus zest. The palate offers more apple and baking spices. The finish is light, almost watery, with a latent warmth. Overall, it's a solid choice if you're seeking an easy-drinking spirit with a surprising amount of flavor. I anticipate seeing this distillery advance further in the bourbon sector. They've already made a significant impact in the PNW; while not all have been my favorites, they appear to be developing a robust flavor profile. I'm hopeful for the release of 7+ year bottles, if they aren't already available!
Bull Run Straight Bourbon Whiskey
3.36 Mixed reviews
Whiskey Bourbon Oregon No age statement
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About this bottle
A bourbon featuring a mash bill of 65% corn, 25% rye, and 10% malted barley. This spirit spends between 4 to 6 years maturing in new, charred American oak barrels. Water from the Bull Run Watershed is used for dilution, and the bottling proof typically hovers around 86.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 8 parsed reviews.
Batch 42 Nose: banana, faint apple, and vanilla. I love the aroma on this one. Taste: slightly smokey, honey, mild spice around the middle of the palate. Overall: it’s good, not my preferred choice but drinkable. The spice doesn't linger and it does seem a little young, and based on that, I would love to try something older from them.
Aroma: Banana, green apple, caramel Taste: Banana bread, vanilla, baking spices Finish: A satisfying finish with cinnamon (and perhaps rye?) spice. I'm curious about the rye content. I'm detecting rye tonight.
Wood and spice are prominent in the aroma and flavor. The blend is excellent and complex. I especially enjoy the lingering spice. It has a medium body but still delivers the flavors well.
The nose doesn't offer much, and the tongue detects only mild sweetness. There's just not a lot present. Perhaps some green apples, but very faint.
Subtly smoky with a hint of spice.
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