Resilient 14 Year Single Barrel Straight Bourbon

The aroma presents a strong charred character, smelling bitter like coffee, with bright, tart cherry, a subtle vanilla veil, a hint of caramel, and significant alcohol, which brings some spice. The palate is rapidly numbing, featuring rich, intense wood with considerable char. A strong coffee ground presence is supported by vibrant red fruits and sharp spiciness. It's sweet yet striking, with a numbing sensation from the spice. Although the fruit is quite vibrant and the char somewhat bitter, the flavors are agreeable. The balance is good, though it could be improved. Caramel is barely noticeable and not excessively sweet, but there's a very sweet syrupy flavor and abundant vanilla. It's quite good, but not quite excellent due to its immaturity. The finish is pleasantly toasty, with a subtle hint of maple and a light blend of peppermint and spearmint. It surpasses Old Forester Signature, sharing a similar profile. It's enjoyable but somewhat overpriced, as I'd expect to pay less for a drink in the $16-17 range. Adding water reveals more wood and spice, initially improving the balance, but later diminishing it. It sits at an 18-19 rating. I'd prefer to assign it a 19, but the subtle flavor reduces that score. A small amount of water accentuates the mineral notes and the char's bitter undertone, also bringing out some cocoa, but it doesn't increase the drink's complexity or enjoyment. The char occasionally adds interesting variation, as if applied unevenly, and there's no young wood presence. The alcohol is noticeable throughout. It's a solid offering. A faint almond toastiness emerges.

The color is a dark golden burnt orange, similar to tawny. It has a sweet caramel aroma with a subtle hint of heat. The palate is smooth with toasted corn and a moderate caramel note. Later, a mild warmth appears, and it finishes with a lasting pepper note.

Extremely oaky, smooth on the finish, but at 126 proof, it has a significant burn. Recommended served neat or on ice to mellow the heat. I expected a smoother bourbon for a $100 price.

This bourbon presents two clear traits. Initially, you'll perceive charred oak, leading into a leather and tobacco conclusion. Quite enjoyable with layered flavors.

Strong peanut presence complemented by a pleasing vanilla and oak character. This certainly has the profile of a George Dickel product.

This offers a very traditional bourbon experience. I'm just uncertain why it would require 14 years of maturation.