Sonoma Distilling Company Cherrywood Smoked Bourbon

Nose: Abundant oak, including tannins - almost reminiscent of spirits aged in Texas. Vanilla, molasses, dusty corn. Plums and figs, but with reduced sweetness. Smoke character is definitely present, though not overpowering. Lemon peel and pith, wintergreen. A subtle floral quality on top. Nutmeg and a burning cinnamon stick. Cherry, but not the syrupy sweet kind found in some other bourbons. Somewhere between pine and thyme. Palate: Oak, smoke, ash, brown sugar. A prickly sensation. Some ripe naval orange comes through, along with banana and berry. Cream, bitter burnt coffee. Tart cherry. Anise and clove. Dry. Mids and highs are balanced, but there's little foundation or depth for them to build upon. It primarily presents on the mid-palate. Medium-light mouthfeel, with a medium-low oil content. Finish: Oak, coffee, smoke, ash. Bitter orange peel, vanilla, cream, and brown sugar. It eventually settles into the taste of angel food cake topped with lightly sweetened homemade whipped cream, served next to a fire with a poorly managed flue. Medium length. Other notes: Unique. Much of the smoke character here reminds me of Garrison Bros. or Balcones, but without the tannins. This explores a niche that certain drinkers inquire about in various online groups and forums. While this isn't the perfected idea, I believe it demonstrates that further discovery is possible. If the label 'smoked bourbon' genuinely interests you, give this a try. If you have any hesitation, you might save your money for something else. Likely not a repeat purchase unless I want something very unconventional for an event!

On the nose, cherry and wood, predominantly oak with a touch of cedar, come through first. Vanilla and hazelnut also appear as you first smell it. It goes down incredibly smooth on the first taste. There's no intense burn or spice. This is a solid choice for those who prefer less burn or spice. The finish features prominent notes of char and cherry. I enjoy this, and it doesn't need ice or water. Excellent for sipping in the evening.

The cherrywood and smoke are a bit intense. I've heard people unfamiliar with bourbon describe it as like taking a bite out of a wooden shelf. They might have a point with this one. But, if you enjoy cherrywood and smoke, this might be perfect for you.

The front end showcases cherrywood prominently. It's quite smooth and sweet, lacking any bite. A pleasant sweet vanilla note appears, along with additional cherry towards the end. 🍒

A compelling profile that's both smooth and enjoyable. The cherrywood note is distinct and offers a welcome variation.

A robust cherrywood and smoke character is met with a mellow whiskey finish.