Doc Holliday 8 Year Straight Bourbon

This is a truly distinctive single barrel bottling. The mash bill itself, consisting of 80% Corn, 10% Malted Corn, 5% Rye, and 5% Malted Barley, is highly unconventional. From a value standpoint, this bottle faces stiff competition from other excellent, aged, cask-strength bourbons that are often priced considerably lower. However, as a conversation starter, it excels. It was aged in two distinct environments (unintentionally), produced by a now-closed distillery, and bottled by an independent entity in packaging that can only be described as ostentatious. Resembling the legendary figure it's named after, this spirit possesses considerable swagger, presented in an old-fashioned grooved bottle with a western-themed label, a metal cork shaped like a loaded revolver cylinder, and a 3D gold-colored steer skull. The label even proclaims, "I'm your huckleberry." Perhaps I'm foolish for opening my bottle (number 21 of 149, according to the handwritten note on the side) instead of preserving it as an investment, but I cannot resist drinking this whiskey. It's full of flavor, malty, and spicy, yet remarkably smooth at its proof. I find that a little water helps to mellow the spice and reveals chocolate notes, likely from the malted corn. It's a remarkable whiskey, unlike any other bourbon I've experienced, though you pay a premium for its uniqueness. While there are other cask-strength bourbons I prefer that are significantly less expensive, I don't regret owning such an enjoyable bottle to share with guests. A spirit like this is unlikely to be produced again, so if you have the opportunity to acquire or sample it, I believe the premium price is justified.

I picked this up at a small shop in Idaho Springs. I was skeptical until I saw the cost. Then, my lifelong fascination with Doc Holliday took over. The nose presents as a meticulously polished antique piano, with undertones of leather, a whisper of cherry, and perhaps some peanuts. It carries the scent of some classic ryes I've experienced. The aroma is assertive, suggesting this whiskey is ready for a confrontation. The taste delivers on the promise with notes of caramel, oak, pepper, and leather, along with the fiery kick of cinnamon and clove. Careful consideration and a tiny bit of water unveil dark fruits and possibly cocoa. It evokes an impression of apple pie with lemon. This is undeniably a bold and refined drink. The finish lingers, refusing to fade quickly. I'm pleased to have discovered this combative yet elegant whiskey. Especially after finding it back home with a significant price increase.

Amazing spirit. The packaging is a gimmick, but the contents are worth the cost. I've never encountered malted corn in a mashbill before, but if this is what produces the difference, I'll seek out all malted corn spirits I find. I detect butterscotch and dark fruit. The flavors are potent and the spirit coats the mouth. In spite of the higher alcohol content, this is not a "burny" spirit. It is delightful.

Begins with prominent caramel and brown sugar, accompanied by a bright, assertive pepper note that I find appealing. I also detect some baking spices and citrus. Overall, it's very good and possesses appealing spicy notes that make it distinct. The mouthfeel and depth are both excellent.

Nose: Strong notes of orange peel. Palate: Incredibly smooth and creamy, reminiscent of an orange creamsicle. Prominent vanilla, orange peel, and leather notes. Very extended finish.

The nose is dominated by butterscotch and oak, with caramel, floral notes, and spice on the palate. It has a complex, rich mouthfeel and is truly solid.