Matchstick Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This is a unique take on a wheated bourbon that really benefits from a little water to unlock its full complexity. There's a lot of flavor here, but these aren't exactly my favorite or expected notes in a wheated bourbon. This makes it both interesting and somewhat disappointing. The finish has more of a rye character with a noticeable burn. This might be one that Scotch enthusiasts should try.

The nose is quite closed, with notes of alcohol and burnt caramel. The flavor is also rather one-dimensional, focusing mainly on barrel char. Adding water doesn't open up the nose; instead, it mutes it and introduces some minerality. The flavor becomes more complex with water, revealing some herbs and spices. This might be a whiskey that benefits from ice. It's not bad, but very one-note.

The presentation is attractive, and it's certified organic (if that matters to you), but the flavors are muted and overwhelmed by a powerful alcohol aroma and taste. It definitely comes across as more rye-like than bourbon-like. I'm not sure what I'm missing here. I would prefer to drink any standard rye or bourbon over this. I've resorted to using it as a mixer.

Nose: Leather, grain Palate: Very rye-forward, not sweet at all, with leather, oak, and a slight cherry note. Finish: The cherry lingers nicely. This would be ideal for a rye enthusiast or someone who prefers their bourbon not to be sweet.

Nose: prickly pear, light grains. The taste is light but refreshing for a young bourbon. There's some sugar or cookie flavor and spice throughout. The finish is light. Really good, one of the best young bourbons I've had.

All of their spirits were sent to me for evaluation, and I enjoyed every single one. The details provided indicate the Bourbon's grain mixture is composed of 51% corn, 40% wheat, and 9% rye.