Hardin's Creek Kentucky Series - Boston

I seem to be the odd one out here. I purchased the 3-bottle, 200ml tasting set. I tried this during our quarterly online tasting with some friends, and had this alongside a few other drams (the standout was a red wine finished Talisker from a friend). I had it again later on my own. I'm just not a fan. I know I'm the exception. It sounds amazing on paper—17 years old, single location, 110 proof, good price. And most reviews seem to love it. So, it's more of a personal issue. But… I find it too one-dimensional, and overly tannic and oaky. I detect tobacco and cocoa on the nose. The palate just isn't for me. Oak, tannic. A bit of a bitter finish. I enjoyed the previous release from this brand (which was 15 years old). That had more depth and complexity, and more importantly, was less tannic and oaky.

A rich and substantial mouthfeel, filled with concentrated flavors, possessing an intensity close to barrel-proof. It begins semi-sweet with cocoa, burnt caramel, significant wood stave, aged tobacco, and well-worn leather. A warming spirit for a cold winter evening, abundant in rich taste and character.