High n' Wicked 5 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Wow, my first review. I will give this situation the proper consideration it deserves. The aroma is quite strong with some peculiar elements: ginger, butterscotch, soy sauce, scallion, cotton candy, sour tamarind, bubblegum, cola, and wood in the form of cedar. I realize this might sound somewhat unappealing when read, but there's enough complexity that it grows on you. A very faint hint of ethanol, but I didn't find it to be a significant issue. The palate features classic caramel and vanilla, followed by bold black cherry notes. If you thought you'd previously tasted black cherry in a bourbon, you haven't experienced it like this. It's almost like cherry cola. A hint of Bananas Foster. Barrel char becomes noticeable around the mid-palate. The flavors are quite well-rounded; an unexpected positive. The finish offers more black cherry, which isn't a bad thing. Also notes of cinnamon bun, freshly cracked black pepper, and sweet oak. There's some youthful heat, but I'd consider it a minor drawback. The mouthfeel is pleasantly viscous while also being effervescent/tingly in a good way. I'm uncertain about its source; part of me suspects Barton due to the characteristic banana note, but it's quite subtle. The flavor profile is definitely in the vein of Barton/Old Forester. I like this. Do I like it for $80? Grrrr...perhaps not. I'd say it's superior to similar whiskeys like 1792 BIB, 1792 FP, and OF 1920, but all of those are $30-$40 less expensive. If it were priced at $50, it would be an easy decision. At $80? It would warrant a 3.99 if such a rating existed. Since it doesn't, a reluctant 3.75.

Consumed this beverage tonight at a gathering with an open bar. I lack detailed observations, but I can confirm it was quite enjoyable. I had never encountered it before tonight. I would consider purchasing it if I encountered it again.

Score: 70