Driftless Glen Small Batch Straight Bourbon

On December 25, 2024, I bought this during a trip to Wisconsin, likely at a particular store. The word was that it performs well in Old Fashioneds in that region. I noticed fingerprints on the bottle and brought it home as a Christmas gift for my father-in-law. Initially sweet, it then presents common bourbon characteristics from oak aging and a moderate corn mash bill. We were surprised by the proof of our specific barrel (bottled by a certain company, batch 3), which was around 97. It's very easy to drink and would be a great foundation for any bourbon cocktail. I was impressed, and the cost was reasonable. Get a bottle before collectors drive up the price on this new contender.

Light amber hue. Medium viscosity is indicated by the legs. The nose is somewhat intense. Caramel is the dominant note, with a subtle malt presence. There's also a touch of smoke, some cacao, and ripe fruit. It has significant warmth. Mid-palate introduces some spice, leading to a moderately long finish. It seems a bit young, with woody, almost cardboard-like notes, but it has enough character to be engaging. All the expected bourbon qualities are there. As a $35 bottle, this represents solid value.

Being from Wisconsin, I have to like Driftless Glen, and I do. It's a great sipper, and their sourcing of ingredients is impressive. It's sweet on the palate, perhaps overly so for some, but I enjoy it. The finish is noticeable enough. I received this as a birthday present and was pleased. A friend and I opened it one evening and finished half the bottle by 3 am, deciding it was time for bed.

Appealing sienna hue. The aroma is average - cherry cola and orange peel, but ruined by a strong oat undertone. A massive cherry flavor on the tongue. Caramel. Orange bitters. The oak cask notes are a little too strong. The alcohol level is well-balanced - just a hint of spice. Much better than the typical craft offerings - no clear defects. Any criticisms are a matter of personal preference. I would happily drink this anytime if the price is right.

Amber color with thick legs! The aroma is light but shows vanilla and butterscotch. The first taste was hit with a lot of spice, followed by some brief sweet caramel notes. It finished with oak and some lingering tastes of a bourbon that needed a bit more aging to be great. Still, it's a very good bourbon for under $35.

This seems alright. It's comparable to Evan Williams white label or a recent tasting of Wilderness Trail BiB, a high rye recipe. Perhaps a bit better. It's not as good as the New Riff bourbons I sampled. I'd be curious to try this at cask strength. I'm content to drink this, but won't purchase a bottle, as I believe I can find similar quality for $12.