Luca Mariano Signature Select Bourbon

Barrel No. 1 Age - 8 years Opened 3 months Nose - Sweet corn, caramel, toffee, allspice, cinnamon, light tobacco, honey, medium oak, and moderate ethanol. Palate - Sweet mash, cornbread, cinnamon bun, honeycomb, and toasted oak. The finish is medium-long with sweet oak, light rye spice, toffee, maple syrup, and moderate ethanol. My go-to liquor store in Kentucky, Liquor City Uncorked, is having a sale on all Luca Mariano products because the owner is leaving the business to pursue horse racing. It's unfortunate because my experience over the past few years indicates they produce excellent rye and bourbon. From my understanding, they have been contract distilling at Wilderness Trail, which is quite apparent when you taste their products. They have consistently offered 6-8 year single barrel bourbon and rye at cask strength for under $80. This "signature bourbon" is a great, affordable alternative to the single barrels with high age statements and near cask strength proof. If you happen to see this or their rye, I strongly suggest purchasing a bottle.

Nose: Warm baking spices with a whisper of sage or rye. It seems a bit settled. Palate: Intense vanilla that gives way to chocolate, leaving a full tingling sensation on the tongue. Finish: Maple and brown sugar, with a duration that's just right. I consumed it neat; perhaps serving it on ice would enhance its character. I'll try that next time.

This is a sample from a store pick. I don't recall the specific tasting notes, but it was good enough for me to buy a bottle. I'll add my tasting notes after I open it.

It's eight years old!