Leadslingers Minuteman Single Malt American Whiskey

The aroma is intense butterscotch that immediately hits you from the glass. Once it rests briefly, a damp earthiness appears over the butterscotch. The taste begins with that familiar butterscotch and toffee, then shifts to a peculiar sweet mustiness that persists through the end. A hint of salted caramel surfaces on the nose after a couple of drinks. The conclusion mirrors the sweet butterscotch with salted caramel and toffee, yet an unusual musty character lingers, which is not to my liking. A touch of water reduces the spirit's heat and mustiness, leaving it excessively sweet. It still brings to mind the sugar-free butterscotch candies my grandfather kept. Adding more water (it's bottled at 120 proof, so you can adjust) completely spoils it and enhances the moldy mustiness. My least favorite aspect is the prolonged secondary aftertaste that emerges after the initial finish fades, a moldy mustiness I strongly dislike. I had hoped to appreciate this more, given its fantastic name, local origin (produced in Moore, OK; I will share the label details separately), and ownership by a collective of fellow veterans. Apparently, they are also involved with a clothing brand. It's acceptable, but that truly bizarre finish was not for me. Nevertheless, it warrants sampling if you have the opportunity.

This whiskey is made in Moore, Oklahoma, and is owned by veterans. The bottle notes state: "Leadslingers Spirits proudly presents Leadslingers Minuteman. Distilled in the heartland of America, this 120 proof single malt American whiskey offers subtle hints of toffee and malt in a mellow presentation that is sure to impress. Just as the bold and heroic colonial Minutemen were cornerstones to the founding of this great nation, we hope Leadslingers Minuteman is a cornerstone to your whiskey choices."

This spirit is remarkably pale and possesses an unappealing flavor profile. The aroma and palate begin with a musty caramel note, followed by a chemically distinct taste. It's akin to tasting stale caramel from a discount store. While I hope this company produces something excellent in the future, Minuteman unfortunately misses the mark.