Kirkland Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon by Barton 1792

I don't typically evaluate inexpensive spirits using a grading scale, focusing instead on value. However, this whiskey is an anomaly. Made with 1792 distillate and costing $20 per liter, it defies conventional expectations. The aroma carries a faint hint of the fruit punch note found in 1792 small batch, along with grain, suggesting youth. There's also a subtle, quickly vanishing brine. The body offers fruit punch, oats, and vanilla. The finish includes chocolate and more oat, with lingering fruit punch. I absolutely love this whiskey. While less complex than 1792 small batch and tasting young, it's excellent, much like the Ancient Age of the 1792 lineup. I'm conflicted about how much I enjoy it, as the novelty of it being the best value bourbon on the market might be influencing my opinion. This is a bold claim, but I stand by it. Next, I'll be trying their green bottle, which is 1792 bonded juice, still under the Kirkland brand.

The scent is vibrant, featuring abundant apricot with a subtle smoky molasses undertone. The initial sip offers mellow fruitiness and a distinct lightness on the palate, yet has a solid feel. It's smooth without being dull. The lingering mid-palate flavor persists longer than the bright top notes suggest. A quiet spice emerges near the end, remaining at the back of the mouth and throat. It never becomes too intense but lingers extensively. This is definitely worth keeping. While it might not be a top pick, its size and price make it highly appealing.

Pale straw color. Plenty of legs, though some linger on the glass. The aroma is a little hot. A significant amount of rye; smells like sweet hay, light caramel, vanilla, and a whisper of coconut. Tastes of salty peanuts, butterscotch, and some spice. A touch of sweetness remains. While not exceptional, it's dangerously easy to drink. The medium finish and peanut butter notes make me want another sip quite quickly. An excellent value.

The aroma is distinctly bubble gum right away. The edges are smooth with woody notes. The bubble gum sweetness is present throughout. The flavor is genuinely good. There's a sharp sensation in the mid-palate that isn't my favorite, and it concludes with a decent, dry woody aftertaste.

Smells like caramel, cinnamon, vanilla, peanut butter, brown sugar, oak, corn, and rye spice. The taste has a bit of a thin body but still delivers flavor. Notes of vanilla, cinnamon, caramel, peanut brittle, and a touch of cherry. A solid, standard bourbon that's a great deal.

This review vanished, though it's not important. A subpar whiskey. The ethanol, astringency, and bitterness overwhelm any pleasant, sweet notes of honey, cinnamon, and apple. The rough finish seals its fate.