Clermont Steep American Single Malt

Many opinions exist about this spirit, with some reviewers finding it to be divisive. While some sources ranked it highly and even included it on a best malts list, others primarily complained about its youthful character. Considering its 5-year maturation, this criticism is understandable, as a raw graininess is present. However, this doesn't automatically make it a poor choice. Perhaps recent experiences with other young spirits, specifically bourbons with prominent corn notes, have made this single malt, crafted from barley, seem more appealing. Compared to those bourbons, which were aged less, this one stands out. Beyond the grainy notes on the nose and palate, which are less pronounced on the finish, the nose offers a sweet cereal aroma, somewhat like a breakfast cereal. The grain itself lends a vegetal quality, reminiscent of asparagus. It seems that when people express curiosity about how this spirit might develop with more barrel time, they are hoping it leans towards the cereal aspect rather than the vegetal. While the vegetal note isn't a dealbreaker, it does serve as a reminder that the price paid, especially when purchased on sale, was more appropriate than the full retail price. The texture is pleasingly thick and is one of the better features. Some graininess remains, but the sweetness is more prominent. Savory caramel and a touch of spice blend with cinnamon, creating a flavor more like a spicy candy than a breakfast cereal. It struck me as intensely cinnamon on the tongue, with vanilla adding a smooth finish. The finish evolved into notes of peach and creamy vanilla, which was the most enjoyable part. While not as enthusiastic as some other reviews, those that approach it as a drinkable spirit with potential for greater complexity with age are on the right track. It will be interesting to observe its future if the distillery continues production and adds age. As it stands, it's neither exceptional nor poor. A bottle isn't necessarily recommended, but trying it at a bar is advised, provided the cost isn't excessive.

Regarding the name "Steep," its connection to the whiskey isn't clear, but the initial aroma is that of freshly brewed tea. American Single Malts generally fall into two categories: tea-like or coffee-like. This one clearly belongs to the tea group. It also presents notes of fruit, leather, freshly cut wood, and a hot cereal similar to Cream of Wheat. A maple and brown sugar sweetness develops over time, but the overall aroma is not excessively sweet. The taste closely mirrors the aroma, featuring notes of leather, malt, and wood. There's unsweetened tea, apple, and just a hint of honey. It has a slightly drying, tannic quality with a mild peppery sensation. The oak becomes more apparent with age, coating and layering the palate, leading to a relatively long, subtly spicy finish. The aftertaste is similar to aggressively chewing a wooden toothpick, eventually developing a light mustiness. A small addition of water enhances both the aroma and taste, increasing the brown sugar/maple notes and introducing a touch of bitter orange peel. Initially unsure about this whiskey, it has gradually become more appealing after a few servings. The musty note that emerged in the aftertaste was particularly pleasing. Some American Single Malts can have off-putting flavors, often associated with craft distillers, but the 5-year age statement seems to mitigate some of these issues. American Single Malt is a distinct category, separate from bourbon or Scotch, with its own recognizable character that ideally deserves its own classification. I can see myself purchasing this again.

A distinctive aroma presents notes of red apple, dried apricot, pecan pie, oak, and raisin bread. The perfume of this whiskey has a deep fruitiness unlike anything previously encountered. The tasting experience is similar, with a subtle barrel influence and an almost ethereal body. The flavor is concentrated in the middle of the palate, with some resemblance to cinnamon apple pie. The overall impression is that of a dessert whiskey. It's highly drinkable, yet it stands in a category of its own. I would favor using this as a component in classic cocktails like a Manhattan or Old-Fashioned, rather than sipping it straight.

I appreciate scotch and bourbon, and I really enjoy this. While some may criticize it, Beam has done well here. Notes of toasted grain are followed by a pleasing fruitiness. The finish could be better, but that's fine because you'll want to continue drinking it.

Smells like brown sugar. Sweet, malty taste finishes almost like root beer. Not remarkable, but certainly not bad.

A pleasant single malt. Spice and apple appear at the beginning, with a touch of maple at the end.