RD One Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Appears to be the same company that reissued the WM Tarr label and has rebranded without coach Stoops. Sampled during a store tasting; informed it's a 5-6 year old KY straight bourbon, likely sourced from Bardstown Distilling Co. Highly one-dimensional, though crafted competently. The aroma is intensely sweet, featuring notes of vanilla, corn syrup, and oak. The taste has some roughness that age might refine. The finish vanishes almost instantly. It fits the "another young KY bourbon" classification. As for its worth, it could spark a philosophical debate, but I'd prefer nearly any $20 bottle from a reputable KY distiller, more thoughtfully combined to soften its rough spots and inject some character. This one, priced around $50, is a total miss for me. Notably, their 101 proof offering, finished in French oak, actually introduced some character. The sweetness was reduced, allowing the spice of the French oak (reminiscent of sandalwood) to emerge. At $60, it's the superior choice for those wanting to explore, but I won't be purchasing it unless discounted to around $45.

Note: I'm not sure if this is relevant, but my bottle looks somewhat different from the picture. Think Hotel Tango, or a squared-off Jefferson's for a close comparison. It's a 4-year-old bourbon. Nose is inoffensive, with generic bourbon notes. I detect lemon, oat, and perfume. Body is creamy. There's grapefruit, sugar, oat milk, raisin, and leather. Finish has mild cinnamon, salt, and a bit of leather. I consider this a decent bourbon. I don't think it achieves anything exceptional, and there's nothing unique about it. However, it is tasty. There are many things I would prefer this over.

$32.99 after a $10 rebate. Nose is very subtle. Earthy with baking spices, cinnamon, and black leather. Taste is very muted and mild. Sweet and soft caramel and vanilla with a toffee, nutty aftertaste. Nice, but not memorable.

Good caramel flavor, smooth yet with a nice burn

This bourbon is too harsh for my taste, I'd pour it out.

Decent flavor and finish overall