First Call Double Oak Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Aroma: Quite plain. Vanilla and oak. I detected a faint butterscotch note from the initial pour, but it quickly vanished, leaving only oak. Taste: Vanilla and brown sugar. A fairly sweet flavor profile. Not excessively rich or sweet compared to other double oak varieties. Finish: Faint vanilla and oak dissipate into a pleasant warmth and heat. A hint of black pepper on the tongue with a pleasing texture. Impression: Straightforward. Predictable. A nice complement to evening drinks or sweeter Double Oaks like Woodford or Old Forester.

An intense Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Master Distiller Kevin Curtis for IJW Whiskey Company, created using over 40 distinct mash bills; aged twice in new, charred American oak barrels. It begins with an aromatic bouquet of wood, fruit, grain, and spice; a rich and full development adds notes of vanilla and dried fruits; leading to a complex and slightly creamy finish of medium length with hints of butterscotch and toasted oak. January 2023 / October 2024

Aroma: Butterscotch, dark chocolate, and vanilla. Taste: Oak, leather, and pepper. A slight sweetness appears near the finish. Medium to long finish. General impression: A big fan of the double oak expression when compared to the standard and other double oaked spirits. Excellent value and complex taste. I would recommend, particularly at the $36.99 price point.

The nose has a distinct aroma of cream soda. The initial taste brings more cream soda and vanilla flavors. The finish presents subtle oak and char notes with underlying hints of leather and pepper. Adding ice mellows the peppery notes while retaining some complexity. A good offering, recommended if you can find it.

This is a simple whiskey. The double oak process does impart nice fruity and woody characteristics. It works well as a mixer. It lacks the depth of flavor I prefer for sipping neat.

Aroma of oak, vanilla, dark chocolate, toasted marshmallow, pear, peppercorn, and char. Palate is sweet with oak, vanilla, pepper, and caramel. A peppery finish.