KO Distilling Distiller's Reserve Bottled in Bond Bourbon

NOSE: Caramel, cornmeal mush, oak, hot cinnamon candies, star anise, clove, herbal notes, and some cracker-like aromas. KO Distilling Distiller’s Reserve Bourbon offers a standard bourbon scent that is neither particularly exciting nor unpleasant. For many small distilleries, this is a commendable outcome. PALATE: Leathery dried dark fruit, intricate baking and dessert spices, toffee, herbal notes, oak, and brown sugar, accompanied by hints of chocolate, licorice, and a touch of that raw, woody taste characteristic of new distilleries. While the nose lacked that common, woody, tannic craft spirit flavor, it is present to a small degree in the taste. FINISH: Lasting a medium to long time -> Oak, baking spice, and toffee gradually give way to a nutty and woody profile.

Nose: Smoky char, musty, vanilla. Palate: Vanilla, grainy, briny, cocoa, light pepper, grain, dry. Starts subtle, balanced, and rounded. The more I drank, the less I enjoyed it. Not my style. Salty char, mild smoke, peppery, and dry.

Dark brown, resembling strongly brewed iced tea. The aroma consists of oak, vanilla, and creme brulee. The flavor is heavily influenced by oak, but not to a detrimental degree. Notes of brown sugar and vanilla are present, and the finish left a long aftertaste of coffee and toffee.

Hints of caramel, butterscotch, and fruit on the nose; pronounced tannins and oak on the palate but not overwhelming; a slight trace of caramel, tartness with a tangy quality; a peppery spice with woody oak and some wheat in the finish. Does not warrant the $70 suggested retail price.

Nose: Taste:corn, toasted wood, mild spice Aftertaste: mellow, pure, faint sweet notes A delightful drink.

This review is for the straight rye expression. It has a strong anise, rye, and raisin presence, with ethanol. It was a touch too spicy for my palate.