Herman Marshall Texas Bourbon

My initial visit to Dallas, Texas, included a quest for the best BBQ and acquiring a bottle of Herman Marshall Small Batch Texas Bourbon Whiskey (Batch 16-1). Herman Marshall is the first distillery in Dallas County since prohibition, producing whiskey by hand in new white oak barrels. The nose is surprisingly vibrant, with notes of apricots, grapes, mulled citrus, and very subtle wood shavings. As it sits, a light leather influence and deeper caramelization emerge, creating an fittingly Western, Texas-inspired image in my mind. I can envision a cowboy entering a saloon, worn leather boots kicking up dust and wood fragments from the floor with each step. The body is luxuriously oily and then tingles the tip of my tongue within five seconds of sipping. It offers a balanced flavor profile, starting with sweet honey and orange, followed by saltiness and a subtle sourness. The last savory note barely reaches the back of my throat as it finishes in the chest, not the stomach. Muted apricot and tannic oak linger, providing a pleasant warmth akin to wrapping a scarf around your neck and shoulders. The finish is slightly drying on the tongue and lasts until you decide to take another sip. I'm genuinely surprised by this one. I would happily offer this when craving American whiskey but don't want a high ABV that's overwhelming. If you seek bold spice, this bottle might not be for you, but I appreciate how this amber (almost orange-tinted) pour contributes to the diversity of American whiskey.

Wow, this was quite unlike any I've had before. I purchased Temptress, not the usual Herman Marshall. It hits the palate with a crisp, corn-forward character, followed by a potent smoky and spicy finish. It's solid, but takes some adjustment.

Smells like vanilla, but tastes bitter on the palate. Has a sting on the lips. Warms the throat slightly and has a long finish. The finish is not pleasant. Smoky and leathery, with a strong, unpleasant flavor. I do not like it.

I've come to really appreciate this Bourbon. My initial experiences were harsh, but now after letting it rest briefly with an ice sphere, the flavor is smoother and more pleasing. Complements chocolate well.

The rye was blended in; rye whiskey, bitter, Aperol & orange garnish. Smells of sweet orange zest. Tastes like sweet orange with a hint of spice. The finish is sweet and herbal. Spicy flavor lingers. 4/5

Could be an everyday pour. It will be nice to share with companions. At 92 proof, it doesn't have as much kick as I'd prefer. Smooth, spicy finish. Vanilla and corn notes. Tasted neat, not memorable.