Calumet Farm Marked Centennial Reserve 18 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

The aroma begins with rich charred oak, vanilla, brown sugar, a hint of molasses sweetness, and earthy spice. It feels smoother than spicy, yet still delivers a subtle kick; 118 proof is respectable for a cask-aged bourbon of this age. After a short while, the earthy spice becomes more floral, enhancing its depth. The palate is dry yet chewy, bursting with oak, cherry, and intense baking spices. Subsequent sips reveal a fruitiness, leaning towards banana, reminiscent of Barton whisky, which is known for its banana tasting notes. It's very easy to drink, with the spice diminishing slightly each sip, allowing the creamy oakiness to be appreciated. The finish is long and chewy, with lingering oak and heat, revealing more flavor with each sip. While perhaps not the most intense flavor profile for its age, it remains full and very enjoyable. A slight proof reduction might unlock interesting flavors, but it's good as is. Its value at the price point is debatable, as it doesn't astound, but it would be an excellent addition to a collection, requiring further enjoyment and time to fully appreciate.

This is an excellent offering. Its 118 proof drinks like 100, with abundant oak, caramel, vanilla, and baking spice. The flavor profile lingers extensively. Letting it rest after pouring is recommended for the best experience, as the bottle continues to evolve. Fans of other age-stated Calumet Farm bottles or 1792 should seek this out. It provides roughly 70% of the experience of a Calumet 16 year. It's comparable to 1792 Aged Twelve Years, but older and more potent. Among my extensive collection, this ranks in the top 5. I'm very pleased with this purchase. If ordering at a bar, allow significant time for it to breathe. Ordering a more common 1792 alongside this and letting this one air out while enjoying the 1792 would be a sophisticated choice.

This remarkable 18-year-old spirit, bottled at 118 proof, earned best in show at the 2025 WSWA competition and was recognized by Forbes as the world's best whisky. The nose is stunning, with hints of dark chocolate, cherry, butterscotch, tobacco, and leather. The palate echoes the nose, featuring vanilla, caramel, and baking spices, leading to a long finish with maple and medicinal cherry notes. Its distinctive trophy decanter celebrates the Calumet Farms centennial, making the overall presentation and bourbon a unique experience. Rated around 4.4, it was rounded up by the app.

A bit of burn, but finishes with banana flavor on the palate.

Quite enjoyable and delicious, with a pleasant finish and good smoothness.

This is fantastic. Perhaps a 4.5.