Pinhook 5 Year Bourbon War True Single Barrel/Vertical Series

A friend who collects the Pinhook series brought this over. Bottle 24/206, at 114 proof. This is the second in their series, which I believe features MGP sourced barrels aging from 4 to 9 years. This one was at the 5-year mark. The aroma had notes of play-doh? Corn sweetness. Faint spice. Rye bread. Overall, a mild aroma, nothing striking. Medium body with a gradual warmth, dill spice, and a medium finish. Unremarkable. I'd prefer this over Buffalo Trace. Both are rounded, mellow, and grain-forward. Compared to my 5-year Smooth Ambler pick that tingles the mouth, this was a bit subdued. He favors the Pinhook; I'd still choose the SAOS for its kick and bolder spice. Preferences vary.

The aroma starts wonderfully with many classic bourbon characteristics like vanilla, caramel, butterscotch, and popcorn. On the palate, the proof is evident with an immediate taste of red hots, cinnamon, and peppery spice, accompanied by some caramel undertones throughout. The finish is long, with the spice and sweet notes interacting.

Nose: Vanilla prominent with hints of caramel and barrel spices. Palate: Vanilla, caramel, oak, cinnamon, red hot candy shell Finish: Long and lingering. Overall: This is a really good and surprising pour. I didn't expect it to taste this good. Reminds me of caramel buttered toast. Highly recommend this bottling.

Buttered cornbread on the nose. Warm cinnamon apple pie on the palate. Medium finish. Westport Whiskey and Wine Barrel selected an excellent barrel!