Copper City Bourbon

Drank neat: The nose has some alcohol burn, eucalyptus, menthol, caramel, and vanilla, with hints of oak. The taste begins with mild sweetness, vanilla, and oak, then develops some warmth and spice from the alcohol, like cinnamon candies, black pepper, and herbaceous rye notes. The cinnamon lingers with caramel, vanilla, and oak. The flavor lasts a medium-long time, with some tannins and sweetness remaining a bit longer. This isn't a groundbreaking bourbon, as it's currently sourced from MGP (they are aging their own now) and has distinct notes of Bulleit/High West Rye. Speaking of those brands, this one evokes the Old West with its unique bottle featuring the brand name in rough, textured glass. This design element is a nice touch and warrants a slight bonus, as does the reasonable price. Recommended for fans of Bulleit Rye and Bourbon, High West Double Rye, and 1792.

They obtain their bourbon elsewhere, or at least they did at first. A batch I sampled last year seemed quite unlike a recent bottle, which tasted of corn and was immature. If they're now distilling their own, they ought to cease, as it's not a quality product. If they're still a bottler that doesn't distill, they're sourcing underdeveloped product. Regardless, it's overpriced and tastes too young.

The nose carries hints of pine and vegetation, bordering on sour. It finishes with a malty cereal character. This was part of a blind tasting event for charity. It placed fourth out of five Arizona spirits for me. Compared to the other local whiskies, it was quite puzzling. I appreciated its complexity, but I wouldn't select it if other choices were available. Evaluated at home.

Nose: faint overall with slight vanilla, notes of juniper and moderate ethanol Taste: light caramel with rye spice, but lacks maturity, depth, and complexity Finish: spicy dry medium long with mouth warmth for its proof I always like to support local products, but I believe this bourbon left me a little short and wanting more.

From Indiana (MGP?), it's been aged and bottled in Arizona. Exhibits a pale gold hue. The aroma was subtle, making it challenging to discern specific notes. The taste was unremarkable, neither offensive nor particularly enjoyable. Worth a try if you're curious, though purchasing a bottle could lead to disappointment for some.

I had high expectations for this Arizona-made spirit. Sadly, I won't be purchasing it again. I disliked it neat, so I used it in Kentucky Mules.