Calumet Farm Small Batch Bourbon (14 Year & 8 Year Blend)

My highest rating for a readily available daily drinker is 3.5. That being said, this is one of my favorites. I find it comparable to another brand, as it's a bit bigger and slightly more intricate. This one is very mellow; I don't dilute it at all. This is why, at least for my taste, I don't find it very complex. The overall profile doesn't change much for me, regardless of how much water I add.

A very pleasing aroma with notes of citrusy dark fruits, cherry, and sweet oak. The taste echoes the aroma, with red fruit being evident along with a mild sweet oak spice. The finish is very short, and the overall mouthfeel is thin. It would be much better at a higher proof; as is, it seems diluted and lacks significant flavor impact.

The nose was primarily ethanol. The palate consisted of oak and leather, leaving my mouth somewhat dry. Adding water diminished the characteristics of both the nose and palate. For an $80 bottle, I found it lacked complexity. I would value it at $50 per bottle at most.

Nose: mesquite Taste: Merely bitter. Not a fan. I anticipated more oak character given the 14-year-old age statement. Finish: Perhaps the mesquite on the nose can be attributed to the oak and alcohol content.

Smooth, sweet, and a touch spicy on the finish. A respectable bourbon that drinks stronger than its stated 86 proof.

The taste is nice, but not outstanding. It has a bit of a sting that mellows with ice.