Calumet Farm Small Batch Bourbon (15 Year & 8 Year Blend)

It begins with subtle notes of oak and vanilla. As the whiskey sits longer, notes of peppercorn and rye spice emerge, along with more oak characteristics. A hint of brown sugar attempts to provide some balance; the lower proof (86) likely suppresses deeper flavors. No harshness and very smooth, though. Calumet Farm Small Batch Bourbon aims to distinguish itself in the market by incorporating a 15-year-old bourbon into its small batch blend. This is prominently displayed on the front of the bottle before its 8-year-old bourbon component. This would suggest the blend contains a substantial amount of 15-year-old bourbon. However, the taste suggests otherwise. Average at best and priced on the higher end for an average bourbon. Likely contains mostly 8-year-old with a small amount of 15-year-old.

Initially, a floral scent greeted my nose. What a pleasant shock, considering my olfaction isn't always reliable! Ha! It boasts a very mellow, savory taste with undertones of fruit, flowers, and oak. It warrants a higher score than a mere 3.5!

This tasted exactly like I'd expect a bourbon with a rye mash bill to taste. It had sweetness, notes of grass, a smooth character, oak, and was pleasing. Nothing really stood out or was particularly complex, but it was a dependable pour.

Pretty standard stuff. I spent $60 on this and have sampled numerous bottles under $40 that offered an equal or superior experience. To be clear, it was enjoyable, but it didn’t justify the higher cost.

Acceptable for the cost. Significantly better than the 8 year old. However, it feels as though the blend didn't fully integrate. It tastes like a mix of a 15 year old and an 8 year old. Honey, sugar, oak. The finish is lacking.

On the nose, I get vanilla and caramel. The first taste offers black pepper and vanilla. Adding ice mellows the burn and introduces notes of char and leather.