Corsair Buck Yeah

Score: 17/23 I remember this being both intriguing and quite enjoyable. Let's see how it fares now. Nose: Gentle maltiness with that distinct buckwheat aroma. I detect some sweet, subtly chocolatey (akin to hot cocoa), nutty-oily, and smoky earthiness alongside fresh grain (essentially the buckwheat scent), yet it avoids smelling chalky. There might be faint hints of nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon. It smells young, yet full and not harsh. Any alcohol detected is only the slightest hint. This is remarkably restrained for its likely proof and age, without seeming weak or flat. Upon closer inspection, a subtle floral apricot note emerges from the malt, though it's very faint. Primarily, the nose highlights the grain blend effectively. Palate: It largely mirrors the nose's flavors. I detect nuts, earth, chocolate, and spices. The cinnamon is a bit more prominent now. There's a slight mustiness reminiscent of Westward, but less pronounced. A bit more tartness and bitterness are present, and the oiliness is more noticeable. The floral apricot flavor is amplified, introducing some vanilla. Light mineral notes are present but well-managed. The new tart-bitter sensation might be a little strong, but the palate is otherwise very pleasant. It's exceptionally smooth. The complexity is robust, and the balance is excellent. Finish: It concludes with a clean and balanced profile. The bitterness contributes a drying sensation, but it's not overwhelming. The buckwheat imparts a unique quality, leaning towards a more savory earthiness, which integrates well. I'd actually be curious to sample a peated malt whiskey incorporating buckwheat. This spirit is noteworthy not only for showcasing buckwheat but also for its impressive balance and solid complexity, especially given its presumed youth. It's a remarkably easy-drinking spirit. While its youth is apparent, it doesn't detract from the experience. Unlike many expressions from that distillery, this one doesn't overwhelm the senses. Some releases feel like they're aggressively announcing themselves, whereas here the buckwheat is prominent but harmoniously blended. It was certainly worth the $50 paid. It also serves as a suitable introduction for a beginner, making it somewhat unconventional. That's the general idea. This earns an easy 15. I believe a 18 would be stretching it, considering the merely decent complexity and a flavor profile that leans more towards interesting than truly delicious. Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoy it. I rated Westward a 16 and Amrut Peated a 17, and I find both to be quite comparable in quality to this. Therefore, it falls between a 16 and 17. Ultimately, the mellow richness and moderate complexity place it closer to the Amrut Peated than Westward, so I'm settling on a 17.

After a semi-quick trip to Maryland, I was eager to open this bottle after seeing it on the shelf in a local liquor store. This is my first purchase from this distillery. They intrigue me as they seem to be experimenting and they don't seem too concerned about trying different and unique combinations, somewhat similar to another brand. The nose is somewhat unique with some bourbon characteristics but softer with (de)shelled pistachios, cocoa, and a touch of oak. Excellent nose. A vanilla sweetness arrives initially and gives way to a hint of raspberry with oak and nutmeg. The palate has a slightly woody feel of cedar or pine with spearmint and nutmeg. A teaspoon of water softens the edges and tones the feel of the dram, and it's preferable without water as it loses a bit of character. This is perfectly suited for a late October or November/Thanksgiving fall harvest time. Very enjoyable and slightly different. I believe this is a limited edition, so if you find one, I don't think the purchase will be a disappointment. [Dried glass: cedar and vanilla][$53][88/100][Opened: 8/29/16]

The aroma is sweet with the character of young malt. It brings to mind Westward in both scent and taste, but this is more showy. The mouthfeel is smooth and very malty, tasting of youth but still possessing a thick, slick quality. It's also quite nutty. I ultimately thought of chestnut, but the provided description mentions pistachio. I can see how one might detect a sort of pistachio paste in this. All the flavors are pleasant, although I'd be very interested in tasting a more mature expression. The 1/3 buckwheat blend is quite effective. It offers a good amount of complexity, with both subtle and distinct flavors present. There's a peculiar vegetal funk, likely from the buckwheat (I assume), which isn't my preference but adds to the intricacy. A sort of rich milk chocolate is also present, along with a hint of spice that is, unexpectedly, more sharp than akin to baking spices. This is highly sippable. It's certainly at least a 15, with potential for a much higher score. A superb instance of a young spirit.

I've tried one Corsair before—their Triple Smoke, which I disliked. However, like High West, I truly respect their unconventional approach and their efforts to forge a different path than standard whiskies. This is a spirit for beer enthusiasts, similar to St. George Single Malt, which I enjoyed. It has a distinct hoppy flavor, like a mild stout. Adding ice or water mitigates the harsh finish that stems from its youth. It's really worth trying—something different and unique. Thanks to a friend for the generous sample! A fitting drink to enjoy on a Sunday evening while watching a close game.

While not exactly my preference, this is a very distinctive whisky that is completely unlike anything I've experienced before. It evokes the smell of Milwaukee: an unusual yet appealing yeasty funk from brewing. It's almost like stale beer. The maltiness is prominent on the palate, but the finish is sweet and surprisingly refined for a young spirit. There's a distinct pistachio nuttiness that is initially off-putting but quickly grows on me. I keep returning to this very intriguing spirit to keep my palate sharp and find a break from the monotonous offerings from many other producers.

The aroma presents honey, berries, and malt. The taste deviates from the smell. It begins with earthy notes, then a robust wood character, progressing to toasted brown rice and tea. Vanilla is also present. Sweetness arrives in phases. It’s warmer than anticipated given the proof. 6/23/17