Old Elk Small Batch Sour Mash Reserve (Batch 1)

I'm being lazy because the distiller makes adding new whiskies too difficult. This is the second batch of this particular spirit. Not many reviews are available for it. Nose - I'm detecting a closed-off, oaky, yet not entirely oaky note that I've encountered more frequently in younger "craft" bourbons. I suspect this stems from using certain "fancy" grains or perhaps smaller batch sizes. While I generally dislike this note, it's not overpowering here. It presents as a young bourbon with elements of an even younger single malt. Essentially, it's a bitter oak, vanilla, and dusty/musty room aroma, but the overall profile is quite pleasant and approachable once the glass has had time to open up. There might even be a hint of walnut or some sophisticated nutty element. With time, sweet notes emerge, and the musty, odd oak and premium grain elements recede. It also begins to reveal chocolate notes and even hints of cherry. Similarly, time allows the youthful character to mellow. Taste - This is an explosive and full-flavored whisky. Chewy oak is prominent, along with abundant fruity flavors (think darker fruits like cherry, plum, and figs, similar to sherry notes but distinctly within a bourbon context). Caramel is more noticeable than vanilla, there's a touch of oak smoke, and it possesses an overarching layer of funk and youthful bitterness, yet with the immense depth and richness found in older expressions. Water - This whisky truly shines at full proof, showcasing its depth and richness. Adding water dilutes much of that, revealing the underlying spirit, which is a 6-year-old bourbon. I now detect biting notes instead of rich depth. The funk and oak that initially suggested varnish and older whisky notes have vanished, leaving an interesting, unique flavor profile with younger characteristics. I apologize for the scattered notes. I struggle to find a good comparison for this spirit. Woodville offers the most similar profile I can recall, and that one is also quite varied. So, the real question is whether it's subjectively enjoyable and objectively correct? Subjectively - I actually find this to be much better than my notes might suggest. The youthfulness and rough edges are balanced by its dense and deep flavor. It possesses significant complexity. I appreciate oak that doesn't mask other flavors, and here, the spice, fruit, and funk are just as potent as the oak notes. Objectively - The 105 proof suits this whisky well; I assume it's proofed or batched to that level. It has rough edges and some off-notes from youth, but they are well-balanced. At 6 years old, it exhibits many characteristics of older whiskies. The sour and bitter elements seem intentional, not the result of poor casks or bad blending. Objectively, this is a well-crafted but younger bourbon. Final thoughts - A rich, creamy mouthfeel complements a truly deep and rich bourbon. If all craft bourbons were like this and not frequently rushed disappointments, we would all benefit. This bottle costs nearly $100, so I cannot strongly recommend it at that price. However, as a craft bourbon, I have nothing but praise. 2.75 out of 5. If you have the opportunity to try it, I recommend it. It's not an everyday whisky, but it's packed with flavor and offers a rare profile.

Past experiences with Old Elk products were mildly pleasing. This special bottle is their claimed finest barrels from a mash bill high in malt. Batch 3 is featured in this particular bottle, so perhaps the third attempt will yield some whiskey enchantment. The aroma clearly indicates the high malt and corn mash. The maltiness is quite apparent, but there's also a bit more alcohol vapor than I'd prefer. Avoid inhaling too deeply without allowing it to rest in the glass for a considerable duration. The initial taste is quite intense for a 52% ABV. I've encountered much higher proofs that were smoother. It strongly evokes a Golden Graham flavor. Typically, the heat subsides after a few sips, but this one still delivers a strong sensation of pepper and alcohol. Just as hints of cinnamon and honey begin to emerge, the alcohol rushes in to dominate. The conclusion introduces a touch of char as the alcohol finally starts to dissipate. Some reviews hailed this as the ultimate sour mash, surpassing Michter's and Elmer T Lee. I must admit, I'd gladly pay a premium for an ETL bottle over this fireball. Considering the price, I found it disappointing. I had genuinely anticipated this higher proof reserve to be exceptional, given my positive experiences with their lower proof versions. It's not undrinkable, but you wouldn't be missing out by leaving it on the shelf and letting me be your $100 test subject....

Nose: Apple, maraschino cherries, cinnamon. Palate: Smooth with a slight backend heat, featuring notes of rye, mint, vanilla, oak, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of licorice. While not exceptionally complex, it's a very worthy sipper. I believe a certain individual would approve.

Nose: notes of vanilla, sweet brown sugar, wood, and a whisper of spice. Initial Taste: A thinner body, but it packs flavor. Initial sweetness gives way to noticeable pepper and oak, with a pleasant level of warmth. With Added Water: The peppery and woody characteristics intensify. A tartness in the finish becomes more pronounced.

This bourbon is flawless. Creamy, rich, smooth, and full of flavor, offering an absolutely phenomenal sipping experience. It's definitely a bottle to keep on hand and share generously. It will win over bourbon newcomers and satisfy seasoned enthusiasts alike. Simply outstanding.

Old Elk Small Batch Reserve (Batch 4), 105 proof. Color: Mahogany. Nose: Floral, earthy, dried apricots, oak. Taste: Cinnamon, dark fruit, buttery, herbal, with a subtle hint of rose water at the end. Finish: Long and spicy. Mouthfeel: Oily. Legs: Medium, unevenly spaced.