McKenzie Single Barrel Bourbon, Barrel No. 1768

This is a limited single barrel release. While still available at the moment, the total bottle count is very low (204). Regardless, I believe it represents the high-quality bourbon this distillery is producing, prompting this review. I appreciate exploring craft options, though it doesn't always pay off. Many craft products are mediocre (or worse), overpriced, or both. However, I've found enough exceptional craft spirits to keep me searching. This bottle is one of those exceptional finds. The grain bill consists of corn-65%, spelt-13%, wheat-11%, malted wheat-6%, and malted barley -5%. If I were to describe an ideal wheated bourbon, I would have mentioned notes of vanilla, oak, caramel, and perhaps some fruit. It should be bold yet smooth, and definitely not one-dimensional. This bottle delivers all that and more. The 52% ABV seems ideal – this dram is bursting with flavor without any harshness. I was so impressed that I decided to compare it to a reality check, opening a bottle of Weller Antique 107. The 107 is a fantastic dram, but I unequivocally prefer this distillery's offering over the Weller (I repeated this comparison on three separate occasions before writing this). That's not to say one is definitively better than the other; it's a matter of personal taste. In comparison, the Weller is spicier and feels somewhat restrained. This distillery's offering takes my palate on a more engaging journey, and I find it to be a superior example of a wheated bourbon in terms of its flavor profile. This is the second bourbon from this distillery I've sampled, the first being their Bottled in Bond (also wheated). They also offer a rye mashbill that I cannot comment on. But if you're considering any of their wheated options, go for it!

The nose presents a lively combination of smoke, toasted wood, ripe produce, leather, vanilla, brown sugar, and numerous other elements that harmonize within this spirit. It's truly remarkable how many distinct notes can be discerned. The mash bill is highly unusual, providing an incredibly distinct and memorable experience. It invites repeated enjoyment; if anything approaches perfection, it is this. The palate offers a somewhat dry and rich mouthfeel, packed with an astonishing array of flavors, including cinnamon, toasted wood, baking spices, ripe fruit, and vanilla. It's a dynamic experience that leaves you feeling completely fulfilled. The finish is exceptionally long, initially revealing notes of toasted wood and vanilla. As you savor it, hints of rye spice and ripe fruit emerge. This is so intricate and profound that it feels almost illicit to be on my final glass of this spirit. I was fortunate to have secured two bottles, and while spirits aren't meant for eternal contemplation, this is one that I will genuinely and deeply miss. It delivers on all fronts. I will forever associate this one with fond memories.

Okay...so, there are two reasons to stop pursuing the rare finds like BTACs and Old Forester Birthdays. There are also two reasons now to stop trying "almost ready" American craft whiskeys where you feel you just spent $100 and got little to show for it. The first reason is Arizona’s Del Bac Dorado if you enjoy smoky whiskey. The second reason is NY’s very own McKenzie if you like complex, balanced whiskey. These two are the best value for money from the USA. Period. Thanks to a generous pour sent by someone I know, I got to try this one. I'm not sure I can even fully describe the complete, ever-changing flavors I experienced. Deeply mysterious with oranges, vanilla, cloves, allspice...all enveloped in a silky smooth texture. Simply amazing. Seek this one out and try it...money well spent. Thanks to my friend!