Hotel Tango Bravo Bourbon

I've held onto this review for a while, and this is the second bottle I've finished. I truly wanted to confirm if it was as good as I believed. And it genuinely is. To quote a wiser and far less endowed acquaintance of mine: “It’s a one-trick pony, but I really enjoy the trick.” The aroma is the first place the watermelon becomes apparent. I've never encountered a bourbon with such an aroma. It's sweet and fresh, like I just sliced into a melon. Delightful. Body has more watermelon. The mouthfeel is honestly somewhat buttery and grainy, but I don't mind. A hint of leather and caramel bitterness is also present, but I'd say the dominant impression is sweet. Finish continues with more watermelon, and a bit of cherry. Technically still adhering to my rule that all Hoosier bourbon north of Indianapolis is poor, this distillery located IN Indianapolis has officially captured my attention. I mean this: this bourbon is the best hidden gem I have ever discovered in the bourbon world. It's not my favorite bourbon ever, but given the relatively low expectations I had from an unknown source (not to mention the fact that it's readily available in my area—looking at you, Buffalo Trace portfolio) the quality I've found for about $60 will ensure this is a permanent fixture on my bourbon shelf. I honestly don't comprehend the low ratings on this application. Not everyone will consider this a 5/5 bourbon. I do, because that's how I mark a personal favorite. But 3s? Look, if watermelon doesn't excite you, don't let the score discourage you. Extremely underrated, and a new top 10 (possibly top 5) whiskey for me.

The aroma is almost nonexistent; I had to practically submerge my nose in the liquid. There's a faint trace of orange and melted butter. The initial taste is bitter. Some melted butter is present, but it has a slightly off quality. A subtle tannic note dries the palate. The oak is too prominent throughout. The finish disappears quickly. Bitter oak fades, leaving a flavorless, oily residue. I grabbed Ardbeg 10 to cleanse my palate. This bottle is not worth $50. Bear Wallow is a superior choice for an Indiana Craft option. I will revisit it in a year to see if subsequent batches are an improvement.

An oily texture with significant oak upfront, accompanied by butterscotch notes, spice, and heat, leading to a buttery yet hot finish.

Aroma: citrus. Apple. Taste: Very mellow. Drinkable. Syrupy. Spices. Hits the roof of my mouth.

Pleasant body. Very smooth. At this stage, I had to identify specific flavors. But incredibly smooth!

Briny and unfortunately not great for a 7-year-old bourbon... suitable for mixing, not sipping.