Resurgent Young American Bourbon

The aroma is quite medicinal and sharp. The initial taste mirrors the scent with medicinal notes and a finish of woody, roasted peanuts. After some ice melt, the aroma becomes slightly more floral and less intense. It's missing the sweetness and richness found in many bourbons, and a lingering acidic, medicinal flavor isn't to my liking. As it melts further, the nose starts to resemble Knob Creek and similar bourbons. I definitely prefer Knob Creek, though it's not my top choice either. A disappointing purchase for $40. By the final sips, it becomes tolerable, tasting like a weaker version of Knob Creek or Basil Hayden's.

At 104 proof, you definitely feel its strength. If aging results in a smooth mouthfeel, this is practically a newborn. If you appreciate a rough, abrasive whiskey, you'll like this. I immediately detect a sappy flavor before being overwhelmed by alcohol. The aroma also carries a distinct sap note. It would fit well during the winter holidays, providing a warming sensation. I don't perceive many sweet notes like vanilla or caramel, but rather more woody flavors like pine.

A solid "local" bourbon that is, admittedly, sourced from Kentucky. Several individuals compare it to Knob Creek, making me curious if it's aged at Beam Suntory. It's light, peppery, sweet, and approachable. Simply a consistently good bourbon to try early in my whiskey exploration. It might not hold up over time, but I'm enjoying it now. The palate has notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak with some pine undertones.

The aroma presents juniper, pine, citrus, grass, and a hint of vanilla. It strongly resembles gin blended with a bit of young whiskey; quite intriguing! The flavor offers spice, pine, lemon zest, and malt, with initial alcohol warmth. The finish echoes a traditional young bourbon, featuring some pine and alcohol heat. This is certainly a unique whiskey. I'm fortunate that I also have a fondness for gin.

Sweet caramel, no harshness, gentle on the initial taste with a slight kick at the end. The color is light, yet it tastes as sweet as a 15-year-aged spirit. An easy-drinking option, likely suitable for an old fashioned.

Young MGP spirit distilled at Midwest Grain Products in Indiana and bottled in Pennsylvania. There's a reason this is the only bourbon bottled in PA that's worth drinking.