Old Elk Single Barrel Straight Bourbon

This is a Big Red Liquors selection at 107.2 proof. Like many custom additions here, I had to choose from numerous duplicates, but this was the closest to authentic. Keep in mind, you aren't unique. I've generally avoided standard blended offerings, considering blended bourbons a waste of time. I hadn't anticipated the same distillery would produce single batches, let alone single barrels and barrel picks. Many aspects suggest this should be a good pick at a reasonable price, from my home state. Let's find out. The nose exhibits excellent rye spice, leaning towards mint and grass, alongside good classic notes of barrel-aged vanilla and caramel. It's not particularly unique so far, but that's often a sign of a good bourbon; tradition usually works out well. There's a noticeable harshness on the nose, but the proof is high enough for this to be expected without being concerning. The initial taste is reminiscent of raw distillate, which I often associate with brandy or grapes. However, this sensation is fleeting as the rye spice begins to develop, becoming prominent in the finish with a moderate warmth, followed by sweet, candy-like notes that fade with aeration in the mouth. The oak is pleasant but tastes too raw for my preference. In reality, it's probably only a level 3 char, but it seems like a 2, possibly even a 1 (I have very limited experience with those lower char levels). It feels like extended aging would resolve most of my dislikes, but it meets a satisfactory minimum level that I still appreciate. To be frank, this has the potential to be a solid, straightforward bourbon, but it does have a taste profile I associate with products from Colorado. What I mean is, if this batch and bottle were produced in Kentucky, utilizing ingredients and subtle characteristics native to that region, I would likely enjoy it more. While it might be a psychological effect, given that myself and many others likely haven't tasted or even seen other whiskies from Colorado, we have to make assumptions and judgments without any concrete evidence. It's worth the price, yes, but not enough to seek out another barrel, nor is it distinct enough on its own for the blended version to be worth exploring.

Tasting: 2 oz neat in a glen cairn glass, followed by 2 drops of water. This is a Binny's pick, Barrel #61. Nose (3.5): Vanilla and creamed corn. This suggests two things: it might be a bit young, and the mash bill likely has a high corn content. The aroma is gentle and welcoming, though slightly elusive. The corn note reminds me of Corn Pops cereal. Palate (3.75): Vanilla is prominent, presenting more as a custard with a pie crust note. The mouthfeel is richer. Corn Pops notes appear on the finish. It's not unpleasant, but it feels slightly out of place. It leans heavily towards the sweeter side. Finish (3.75): While the palate was sweet, I now detect some pepper and oakiness. This was surprising as it emerged unexpectedly. The sweetness doesn't recede or yield to spice as I prefer; instead, it sharply appears, like a sudden fright. Overall: This is my first experience with the brand. I admire Greg Metze's prior work with MGP before Old Elk, so I was eager to try it. Given it was a barrel selection, my excitement was even higher. I can't say I was disappointed, but I also wasn't impressed. The balance felt off – too much high-end, not enough low-end, so to speak. I suspect 6 years might not have been sufficient aging. Each element was good individually, but they didn't come together cohesively. UPDATE ON 3/1: I stand by my previous notes, but I have a comparison for those interested... this profile is remarkably similar to Stranahan's Yellow Label Single Barrel. I'm curious if they share a source.

This A&B store selection is often compared to a budget Pappy due to its wheated profile. While that might be high praise, I was curious to try it. The aroma definitely has a sweet wheat character, almost like a sweet Sunday morning bakery. Upon first taste, it has a full presence with notes of corn mash, vanilla, and a hint of honey. It evokes flavors of sweet honey glazed corn muffins. The finish introduces a bit of heat, which is unexpected given the smooth initial impression. Overall, I find this to be a very pleasant drink. It might not be in the same league as top-tier Pappy, but it's still quite good.

Aroma: Notes of banana bread, vanilla, and possibly milk chocolate. Also hints of brownies with walnuts and baking spices, reminiscent of a bakery. Taste: Vanilla, clove, and baking spices mingle with caramel. A balance of sweetness and spice, like cinnamon sugar or a spicy crème brûlée that is surprisingly good. Finish: Warm yet sweet, with a thin texture and cinnamon undertones. *Store selection from EZ LIQUOR*

This is a Coast Guard Exchange barrel pick, honoring those who serve. The aroma features corn, tobacco, and brown sugar. The taste is smooth considering the proof, but the MGP origin is quite apparent. There's a mild musty corn flavor and a decent build of rye spice. Overall, it's good, but not exceptional.

Nose: Smoky caramel with notes of oak, vanilla, and cinnamon. Hints of bright, young red fruits. Taste: Smooth caramel and oak character, complemented by vanilla and a subtle smokiness. Finish: Vanilla and caramel notes dominate, with a touch of bitter barrel wood, which is the only drawback of the entire bottle.