Pinhook Bourbondini High Proof Bourbon

I didn't anticipate much from this, so I'm delighted. It has flavors of caramel apple, significant cinnamon and clove, and is a bit hot, though perhaps less so than one might guess given its proof and age. It's quite direct, but nothing is really out of place. It tastes young, yet lacks any strong craft whiskey funk. I'd say it's pretty much on par with New Riff and Blue Note Uncut barrel picks. Update 1: When compared side-by-side with New Riff Single Barrel, I detect more ethanol from the NR and a bit more tartness from the Pinhook. Considering I got the Pinhook for about $10 less than the NRSB, it's a close call in terms of value. The NR is superior, especially if you can find it closer to $40. Update 2: Similar to the Blue Note, this seemed to decline in quality the more I consumed. The rating decreased somewhat.

Despite its high proof, the nose lacks the expected ethanol. Initial aromas include vanilla and charred apple. The first sip presents black pepper, but surprisingly, there's no harsh burn from the high proof. It's somewhat tannic, with a finish of leather and charred oak. Adding an ice cube softens the initial peppery sensation but intensifies the charred oak on the finish. Quite good overall, with many intense flavors.

The nose is dominated by cinnamon and other warm spices. Offers big fruity flavors, including floral and tropical notes like mango, strawberry, and pineapple, which are very sweet and smooth. The finish is marked by spicy baking notes that complement the fruit exceptionally well. It's highly unique, and I really enjoy its flavor profile.

Tasted neat. Potent ethanol on the smell with hints of caramel, black pepper, and vanilla. The palate delivers a strong impact. Following that initial intensity, it's zesty with notes of green tea, vanilla, and corn. I paid around $99 for this bottle and it was not worth it.

Smell: alcohol, cherry, a hint of caramel. Taste: quite delicate, sweet, and smooth with flavors of watermelon, strawberry, mango, oak, and cinnamon on the conclusion. Extended conclusion.

Nose: light, fruity notes Palate: maple, spicy, woody notes Finish: slightly less pronounced spicy and woody notes