Early Times Kentucky Whisky

Nose: Light, with minerality, soft caramel, a touch of musty wood or cardboard, and a dash of cinnamon. There's an oily, fruity note reminiscent of Irish whiskey. The nose isn't remarkable, but it's not unpleasant. Palate: Very smooth and sweet, with nothing disagreeable but also nothing particularly engaging. It tastes young, but not so much that the raw spirit flavor emerges. Standard caramel notes, occasionally bordering on butterscotch, mingle with vanilla, anise (distinctly different from strong licorice notes), a bit of cinnamon, and mild tartness. A woody richness occasionally suggests milk chocolate. The oily fruit from the nose reappears. Alcohol is noticeable, but it's not bitter, harsh, or artificial; it's somewhat like vodka and a bit watery due to low proof and youth. Compared to a higher proof bourbon, the ethanol is more pronounced, and the vodka character is stronger. It has less intensity than another bourbon but also less character. It's oilier and smoother, with a nectar-like quality that makes it surprisingly enjoyable, though far from outstanding. Finish: Anise is prominent, with a hint of black pepper and alcohol. The mineral notes are strong, and the sweet flavors fade quickly. It's not great, but no off-flavors are present. Overall: Sweet and smooth, suitable as an introduction or for mixing. It performed well in a specific cocktail, possibly due to its lighter profile complementing the drink's nature. When compared to another bourbon, this is similarly light but less complex; that other bourbon is likely better overall but less suited for this particular cocktail due to its added complexity. In that cocktail, this might be a good choice for those seeking sweetness. Another higher proof bourbon is definitely superior neat but might be challenging in that cocktail due to its herbal notes clashing with the other ingredients. The other bourbon might be preferred in that cocktail as well. Further Impressions: This grows on me as an easy-drinking option. While not a favorite, its unobjectionable nature makes it pleasant to have around. Final Thoughts: Sipping this is easy, but it's unexciting. For something consumed for enjoyment, I'd prefer more distinct flavor. For a similar price, another bourbon (and possibly another one as well) is a slightly better option, though preferences may vary. Even those, I'd generally pass on to get a higher-proof option for a bit more money, which is quite sippable on its own. It's not as beginner-friendly, however, so if that's the goal, this might be suitable. Purchase Intent: Unless introducing someone to bourbon or using it in a very diluted mixed drink at a large gathering, I likely won't buy this again. It's not terrible (and dangerously easy to drink in quantity), but I'd prefer to spend a little more for better quality. I'm giving it a standard rating, though I might reconsider it later.

Appearance: The liquid had a caramel syrup amber color. The thin, very oily legs clung stubbornly to the glass. Nose: The aroma was dominated by heavy caramel, followed by notes resembling nail polish remover, wood shavings, and peanuts. Taste: The initial taste was cinnamon sugar, then a sharpness reminiscent of Hot Tamales candy. Notes of orange peel and cherry were also present. Taking too large a sip, similar to my experience, would likely result in a burn and a significant unpleasant sensation. Finish: After the initial shivers, there was a medium-duration finish with a hard-to-describe aftertaste that was both musty and fresh. Thoughts: In summary, this whiskey wasn't bad. It was somewhat harsh, but in a rugged manner. I think it would be excellent as a mixer, but I wouldn't ask for more if offered as a sipper. Thank you to Brown-Forman for this product and its extensive history. I hope its fans continue to enjoy it for a long time! Cheers!

Nose: A bit light and oily, with some apricot notes. It's not quite what I'd expect from a bourbon, but it's close. Palate: Quite smooth and light, with an oily feel. The alcohol is present but balanced by sweetness, a clean water essence, hints of apricot, light caramel, faint nuttiness, and spices. It's not overly complex, but it's decent. A solid profile, especially for the low price. Finish: The oily fruitiness lingers; it's not the best rendition but it's acceptable. Conclusion: A dependable budget whiskey. While not a favorite and showing its youth, it's drinkable. I still favor another bourbon for its unique corn sweetness, but this isn't bad. I could rate it higher, but a standard rating feels appropriate right now.

I'm nearing the end of a bottle of Early Times, and this is a respectable whiskey for the cost. For a spirit around $10 a bottle, its drinkability makes it a winner. I wouldn't compare it to W. L. Weller or E. H. Taylor, but as a 'well' whiskey or mixer, it's excellent. Sipping it neat was harsh and unpleasant. However, with a bit of ice, it became smoother and more palatable. I believe it's a good value for the money, but overall, it's average at best and not as good as Ancient Age or Evan Williams.

A miniature bottle was poured neat into a Glencairn glass at home. It has a golden hue. The nose offers abundant baking spices with some popcorn notes toward the end. It's quite pleasant, actually. The taste is reminiscent of spiced bread with vanilla, and the popcorn flavor reappears. While not as appealing as the aroma, it's still not disagreeable overall. It's neither particularly good nor bad, and exceeded my expectations. 6/8/19

It does not meet the criteria to be classified as "bourbon." It's a stretch to even label it "whiskey." Against my better judgment, I tried adding an ice cube to "improve" the flavor. It only intensified the medicinal, chemical notes. My sole positive is that I bought a 375 ml bottle for $6.79, but I might end up discarding some of it.