Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon 10 Year

I had a unique opportunity to visit a remarkable establishment. It was noteworthy that their central top shelf displayed two tiers. The front tier held premium selections, while a less prominent back tier featured other selections. I experienced a moment of profound realization at the bar. Later, I enjoyed a pour and our bartender's favored selection. It was a fantastic evening. A broken water main outside effectively kept us at the bar, which was quite unfortunate. With a proof of 120.8, this was a special single barrel selection. It poured a beautiful amber with a reddish tint and exhibited numerous slow legs. The aroma was rich with the scent of sawdust, intense heat, leather, cinnamon hard candy, and vanilla. With time, nutty and even floral notes emerged. The initial taste was intense, but a few drops of water revealed a smoother texture and notes of leather, vanilla, toffee, light espresso, and buttercream. This was distinct from familiar styles. I cannot identify the mash bill, but I suspect it aged in a high, hot section of the rickhouse. The finish was lengthy, featuring oak, leather, bananas, and a frosting-like creaminess. Enthusiasts of a certain release would describe this as exceptional. The flavor profile differed significantly from another known spirit, but the intensity of the taste was comparable. I felt quite affected afterward. Regarding the score, I reduced it slightly because these are no longer available, which is a source of frustration.