E.J. Curley Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Served neat. Second tasting. A new independent bottler brand, this is the first time I encountered this single barrel offering at a specific store for approximately $72.99. The initial pour didn't quite resonate with me, but after sampling other beverages, I concluded it was my palate that was the issue and wanted to re-evaluate my opinion. Returning to it today to see if I was mistaken. (Spoiler - It was clearly an off day for me.) The aroma is delightful. Peanut brittle, powdered sugar, and elephant ears, with a mix of fruit. Some deeper baking spices are subtly present the more you let it sit. A faint hint of clove. On the palate, the texture is oily and coating. Initially dark on the tongue. Brown sugar, cinnamon, and a slight taste of peanut skins. A hint of vanilla. Mid-palate slightly brightens with waves of vanilla and that fruit medley - I'd say a blackberry and raspberry combination. The finish is entirely sweet, sweet peanut brittle. The sweetness persists and intensifies. Confectionery sweetness. It returns for a second wave. The finish is the highlight here. It is exceptionally sweet. A solid single barrel. I'd guess it's a 6+ year old product from a specific distillery. It strongly resembles the recent 7-year Barrel brand single barrels that have been released. The finish is the best aspect, and the sweetness is captivating. My inclination is to pour another glass after finishing this one. A good value for a $72 purchase that isn't a special selection.

The aroma is very sweet on the nose with some cherry on the palate. However, I couldn't discern many other flavors as this bourbon was just hot and very dry. I added a cube to mellow the rest of the glass but finished it in one large gulp while eating my dinner. Edit: Batch 40, tasted batch 26 and it was more enjoyable. Surprised by the significant difference.

This offers a sweet profile with mild spice and dark fruit notes. The finish is long, with a nutty character developing towards the end. A commendable single barrel, overall.

Tastes like toasted marshmallows!