Palm Ridge Reserve

I truly appreciated this with my meal the other evening. It had prominent oak characteristics, typical of Florida whiskey (due to the heat), but it didn't overwhelm the other flavors that evolved during the meal. Nose: Oak, strong vanilla, and candied caramel (strongly reminded me of Caramel Creams from my childhood), plus some chocolate. Taste: It continues to change as it airs out. Initially, the wood and dust were noticeable, but it developed into something offering close to a dozen different tastes. Among the flavors that appeared were chocolate malt, cinnamon, cherry, coffee, orange, and lemon. Finish: It has a smooth, buttery quality as it concludes. It doesn't hit abruptly but rather fades away elegantly. The flavor lingers, which I like, but it's never challenging at any point. Value: It was a distinctive experience, and I'm biased being from Central Florida... but I can say that $14 per serving is likely too high given that other good options were available for under $10. Nevertheless, I'm glad I tried it and would happily keep it in my home collection. Overall: 87. It's good, unique, and complex. It feels like a hybrid between a bourbon and a scotch. This is quality product, but not universally appealing. And I anticipated the woodiness having tried other Florida whiskeys before. That being said, this is definitely worth sampling if you desire an excellent example from a Florida distiller.

(Note: due to this being a small reserve and in micro batches, the flavor can differ by year; check the date on any review you read!:) Prominent orange and vanilla notes, with some dark chocolate and occasional minty undertones. (Sometimes it tastes like a chocolate orange) Almost as potent as a flavored whiskey, in a positive way. (Not excessively sweet) Abundant flavor for a 1-year spirit, likely from the orange and oak chips added to what I suspect are smaller barrels. (Smaller barrels require less aging time) If you're in Florida, find a bottle and keep yourself supplied! Have one to share with a friend! An incredible whiskey, especially considering the price, but it's also rarer and probably only found in Florida. If you're not a fan of orange or vanilla notes (I wasn't initially keen on orange, but I appreciate it more now), you should at least give it a try once! Another interesting aspect of this bottle: it tasted fantastic when first opened and remained the same even after the liquid level dropped significantly past the shoulder. (Many whiskeys change considerably at that point)

The aroma of caramel is nearly viscous. The palate echoes this, joined by oak. A hint of spice, perhaps cinnamon. Significant alcohol bite, especially for a 90 proof spirit. It has an oily texture in the mouth, yet finishes with dry oak. A lingering trace of mint, similar to having just consumed a peppermint sweet. The primary drawback is its harshness, but the blend and intensity of flavors are commendable. This bottle was acquired in 2014.

Sweetness greets you immediately on the aroma. This promises a pleasant experience; the taste is sweet and cereal-like, with plum fruitiness and a moderate finish rich with citrus. I'm enjoying this as a delightful alternative.

Excellent drink! I've enjoyed every bottle since the distillery opened. A relative buys me one annually for my birthday! It's sweet and fruity with a touch of caramel. Very smooth to consume!

Incredibly smooth! It won a blind tasting against Crown Royal, Jack Daniels, and some others.