Ezra Brooks Distiller's Collection Bourbon

The main issue I have with this whisky is recalling the taste of Old Ezra. While you might think that Ezra Distiller's costs $35 and Old Ezra costs $60, that wasn't the case two years ago. Let me tell you a story: two years back, Old Ezra was $40 and it was fantastic. It tasted like melted butter mixed with caramelized brown sugar. Then, a publication placed Old Ezra on its top 20 list, and its price dramatically increased to $60. The problem with that? Old Ezra isn't worth $60 when comparable bourbons like Maker's Wood series or Knob Creek 12 are available for that price. This brings up another question: are distillers aware that consumers can tell when a bottle shifts from being affordably enjoyable to something you'd only drink if offered? Or is it that enough people buy it out of ignorance to offset those who know better? For instance, Ardbeg Wee Beastie used to be $42 in my area and often on sale for $37. While opinions on the Beast vary, it's hard to find a better scotch at $37. Now, I saw it priced at $50, making me decide I'll never buy it again because the enjoyment doesn't match the cost. The same applies to Old Ezra at $60. Now, Ezra Distiller's is bottled at the same proof as Old Ezra but is three years younger, and it tastes like it. I've still given it a 3.5 because the price-to-enjoyment ratio still favors it as a bottle I've liked and would consider buying again. It's not exceptional, but at $35, it doesn't need to be. It just needs to satisfy on a day when that's what you're looking for. The nose is full of vanilla, caramel, and oak, with a slight ethanol note (actually, there's a chlorinated quality that reminds me of a swimming pool), but it's not overpowering. I actually find that slight funk appealing, reminiscent of the standard Ezra Brooks 90 proof 1.75L bottle I used to enjoy over ice in my twenties, but in a slightly higher quality form. The palate adds cinnamon to the caramel notes from the nose, with some sawdust and leather balancing the vanilla sweetness. The finish is adequate, and I hope the price doesn't increase on this one, as I might buy it at $40 but certainly not higher. The primary difference between this and Old Ezra is the mouthfeel and the absence of that ethanol note in the more aged version. The buttery characteristic of Old Ezra is missing here, and while that might make a difference, if you don't mind the younger sibling, this one could be for you. SPECS: Barrel No: 7539090

This brings back memories. In my younger years, Ezra was my preferred brand. It was produced by the Ripy family then, and I don't recall any changes besides the label when it transitioned to Wathen. It was 7 years old and ninety proof. Then it vanished. It started reappearing about ten years ago, but I only revisited it in the last few years. I enjoyed the recent 99 proof release and love the old Ezra. This version has a proof between those and is almost exactly 5 years old. I made a spontaneous purchase, like another reviewer, buying a couple of bottles. (Around here, you often don't get a second chance if you like something.) It takes time to open up, but the typical butterscotch is present, especially with a little water. For a 107 proof, the alcohol is not particularly noticeable on the aroma but becomes apparent with a slight numbing sensation on the lips. There's a pecan pie flavor in the next layer. What's not to like? The palate is accurate, but there's a bit of alcohol tingle. The finish is shorter than I had hoped for. Here's my dilemma. Objectively, this is a $35 bourbon, and I'm happy I bought two bottles. The issue is that it's not significantly different from the 99 proof version, which I'm currently enjoying. And the 99 proof isn't any better than EC 94. The store picks of EC 94 are superior and slightly less expensive. One review mentioned that experiences may vary, and another stated that single barrel selections in this price category have more variation between barrels. That accurately sums it up. I like this bourbon, but I was expecting a little more. If you have access to EC94 store picks, opt for those instead.

To start, I've never encountered a corked bourbon bottle before. When I removed the stopper, half of the cork remained inside. I had to carefully extract the pieces and rebottle it into the same bottle using a different stopper. While I'm not usually a fan of Lux Row, this one was quite palatable and perfectly drinkable. The nose offered very traditional bourbon notes, with some unexpected fruit undertones. These fruit notes didn't carry over to the taste, which seemed less potent than its 107 proof, with hints of nuttiness and a lingering spice. I detected some graininess, which I typically find in less refined or younger bourbons. My main issue is the extremely short and somewhat drying finish, which isn't ideal. Given I paid $30 for it, I can't complain too much; it's a perfectly serviceable bourbon that I'll likely revisit occasionally. I'm giving it a standard 3, my rating for a good, drinkable bourbon. I'd be happy to drink it if offered but wouldn't specifically seek it out. For the $30 price point, I'm satisfied. At $45 or $50, I wouldn't be.

Barrel No. 1216, Barrelled 3/5/18 Color: Medium Amber Aroma: Burnt caramel, cinnamon, molasses, oak. Taste: Initial intense spice, followed by a nice warm sensation. Some sweetness but the spiciness is the dominant feature. A little heat. Coats the tongue nicely, but not excessively "oily" or thick. The above was written after my first pour. The second pour revealed more sweetness than the first. Still very spicy, but more evenly distributed between "spicy" and "sweet". Since I bought this bottle at Total Wine and More in Connecticut, and I live in California, I won't be able to try this particular batch again. I believe there are some bottles remaining at the BevMo here in town. I am curious to try it. Stay tuned.... Added 6/30/23: This is certainly a bottle that improves over time. The initial strong spice assault was no longer present this time. Still a very good drink. Not exceptional, but a very good everyday sipper nonetheless. Final pour 7/3/23: The warm chest sensation is still noticeable. I will say this drinks a little hotter than its 107 proof. Sweetness and spiciness remain consistent with all previous tastes. Significant oak tannins.

[6.13.2025] A near-perfect evening elevates this beyond its objective merit, perhaps influenced by the company. It was the bachelor party for my younger brother, a lovely night, a crackling bonfire, listening to music on the radio, and this was shared by a close friend of the groom. A truly memorable occasion. Vanilla and dried fruit are prominent. Oak appears in the burn of the aftertaste. I'd rate it a 4.5, but it might be closer to a 4. The flavor profile is quite appealing, yet there's a touch too much sharpness, giving an impression of imbalance.

Initial impression from the first pour, after opening and letting it sit in a glencairn for over 30 minutes. Smell (Straight): Tastes like cherry cola and cream soda with a bit of spice. No alcohol scent could be detected. Taste (Straight): A light, buttery sweetness that develops into mild red fruit notes and a hint of tobacco. Aftertaste (Straight): Medium spice that mellows into a slightly sweet, buttery pie crust. Provides a medium bourbon warmth.