McKenzie Bourbon Single Barrel (Wheated Mashbill)

I'm a big admirer of McKenzie, and alongside a few other American distilleries (specifically Balcones, Stranhan, and DelBac), I personally consider these four to be the best that America has to offer in craft whiskey. This pour was provided by my friend. It's a 4-year-old single barrel with 65% corn, 13% spelt, 11% wheat, and 6% malted barley. It's bottled at a robust 52% ABV. Nose is subtle—pastry and buttered bread. Taste is well-balanced; you get cinnamon and vanilla upfront, which then balances with baked goods. I prefer their rye, but that's just my preference for rye, which is second only to single malt. However, this managed to hold its own, offering something simple, straightforward, and smooth. And sometimes, simple is all that's needed. Thanks to my friend for the pour!

Nose: Requires effort to get past the alcohol, but I detect sweet pecan. Palate: Intense caramel. Sweet and bright, as expected from a wheated bourbon. Finish: Dry and long. Very oaky.

An excellent value for the price. It lacks a strong burn at the end, which I prefer.