Craft Works SOB 2020

Whisky Evaluation: The Oak Barrel, Sydney, January 19, 2021. Whisky Sample #2 Nose: A sharp, pungent aroma upon first smelling. Sawdust and woody planks, stale water, acetone, unripe fruit. Palate: Surprisingly vegetal. Cabbage water again, sour fruit, unseasoned wood. Finish: Short. This was produced as an independent bottling by Craft Works Distillery in late 2020. The owner obtained the new-make spirit from an unnamed NSW distillery and aged it at his location in Capertee NSW in an American oak ex-bourbon cask. The name “SOB” is not what you might assume – it stands for “Shades of Bourbon,” but I don't grasp the meaning as there's little about this whisky that resembles bourbon. It is clearly a young, unrefined barley spirit, and in my opinion, the cut was far too wide. I did not enjoy this whisky, and frankly, the word that came to mind when I tasted it was "amateurish." I've read and seen some positive reviews and tasting notes, but they don't align with my experience. Perhaps they are all accurate, and I am mistaken? Regardless, I wouldn't want to taste a free sample of this again, let alone purchase a bottle, and I'm genuinely surprised the tasting host included it in the evening's selection. At AUD$159 for a bottle, I can only assume the asking price is a joke. “Poor”: 63/100 (1.25 stars)