Kirkland 7 Year Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon

Expecting a 7-year-old bourbon in a liter bottle for around $30 to be a good deal, I decided to try this one. What I discovered was that the more you look, the less you'll actually comprehend about this enigmatic bourbon. Disregard the front label; as of this writing, the previous Beam-sourced spirit has been swapped out. This one is labeled as "Tennessee Bourbon," which is nearly a puzzle in itself, given that Tennessee is known for the Lincoln County Process. Immediately, you'll notice a sharp and distinct contrast of citrus and sweet, caramelized sugars. If this had come from a bottle like Elijah Craig, it would have been predictable. The middle section is robust and sweet, leading to a tapering finish with natural warmth and minimal bitterness. Some notes of cherry chocolate, with whispers of clove and orange, arrive as an afterthought. While the origin of the spirit might be uncertain, one thing that cannot be mistaken is the age statement. If it says 7 years, it must be 7 years, which excludes a considerable number of "black labels" that we know never reach that age before heading to the local liquor store. Although bottled in Columbia, TN, the source remains open to numerous theories. Whispers of Beam, and now Daniels, Dickel, and Buffalo Trace, are all based on guesswork. Trusting my palate, I'd say this is most likely a Heaven Hill product or a close imitation, probably from MGP. It's a spirit with a high corn and barley content, perhaps some wheat, but definitely not high rye. The bourbon's sweetness pairs nicely with the acidic citrus contrast; there's very little barrel influence or oak to be detected. For the cost, you can't fault this bourbon for what it is, and you won't miss the tell-tale signs of young bourbon's greenness and immaturity. Coming from a bulk-buying establishment, the expectation of a "value" bourbon is entirely reasonable, and the "Kirkland" 7-year-old fits that bill perfectly.

(Batch T-1796) When I saw this at my local Costco and the price, I decided to give it a try. I must say the aroma wasn't half bad at all. Great balance of vanilla, spice, and oak. I was intrigued and looked forward to tasting it. Unfortunately, the heat from the proof wasn't as balanced. It seemed to overpower the flavor notes that desperately tried to make themselves known. I did add a couple drops and it helped slightly. What was smothered beneath the burn was leather, corn, cinnamon, and some barrel. In addition to the alcoholic presence was a prominent bitterness towards the end. A shame. In my opinion this had potential to be much better if the alcohol/bitterness wasn't off kilter. Still ok in a pinch if nothing else is available. Served great as an Old Fashioned though which was my primary interest in it anyway so I came out ahead there. That said there are a tad bit cheaper options with an increase in quality for both sipping and cocktailing it. Elijah Craig Small Batch came to mind. Cheers all!

I heard about this and got some at a warehouse store to share with companions. A respectable everyday drinker. It has more caramel and molasses than I anticipated for a bourbon. This is likely a good thing as it's 103 proof and seems to moderate the burn. It's more citrusy than spicy. The molasses lingers with a hint of smokiness after the finish. This would be a great ingredient for my bourbon pecan pie or holiday bourbon pecan sweet potatoes.

Consumed neat in a Glencarin glass. Nose: Toasted caramel, brown sugar Palate: Oak, mild cereal, slightly astringent Finish: Medium-long, hints of spice, oak Overall: Tastes very similar to a Jim Beam product (I believe the mash bill is sourced from Beam). Not highly intricate. Not very smooth; it has a somewhat harsh bite. It seems a bit immature and underdeveloped. Excellent value, but not to my personal taste.

The aroma presents oak-aged vanilla alongside hints of citrus and caramel, reminiscent of an orange creamsicle. The palate opens with abundant vanilla sweetness, a whisper of fruit, and a subtle nod to rye and oak barrels, eventually settling into a moderate caramel and vanilla finish.

A store brand bourbon? Haha. Yes, I was doubtful but intrigued. I must admit... it's not terrible. It's actually quite enjoyable and mixes well in drinks. However, I disagree with the price.