Stellum Black Equinox Bourbon (Blend #1)

Nose: Tastes like birthday cake frosting soaked in spirits and oak. As it airs out, I detect pleasant caramel tones with faint hints. It's sweet and very rich. There's also some rye spice present. Very good. Palate: Mirrors the aroma, but with a pleasing syrupy quality. The spirit's strength really hits the back of the mouth and the finish. Conclusion: Like most Stellum products, it's a powerful pour. I personally like it. When I first tried it, I thought it was exceptional. Now, though, I believe $90 is too much. It should cost between $70 and $80. My initial rating was 4.75. I have to lower it because of the price and the lack of information. There's no age statement or mash bill – what am I actually consuming? These bottles linger on shelves for a reason, and I hope they continue to do so. It's difficult to commit to a purchase that's so expensive without any details about the product. (Although I did buy it after seeing a video review.) In my view, Barrell Craft Spirits should stop making the Stellum line entirely. No age statement, no mash bill, and a high price mean you shouldn't buy it. Stick to their BCS Bourbon and Rye; they offer an age statement and mash bill for less money, and the whiskey is just as good, in my opinion.

Bottled at an impressive 117.26% proof, this is still a very drinkable spirit. A deep, comforting sweetness is generously coated with a strong charred wood character. The blend of tastes is complex. Notes of baking spices, sweet corn, supple brown bread, fresh tobacco, toasted muffin, and mild cinnamon blend together harmoniously. The lingering finish concludes with a caramel flavor. Overall, a guaranteed success from Stellum once again.

Aroma of caramel and some burnt brown sugar with orange zest. Palate features spicy citrus notes and black pepper. The finish is medium to long with clove. Adding a little water enhances the sweet brown sugar notes.

A pleasant pour. Flavors include light vanilla cream, coconut, and a subtle hint of orange. Best consumed near its stated proof, but the finish is short for a spirit close to 110 proof. A gentle warmth is noticeable.

Give it a little time to open up, use a single ice cube. The aroma is of rich brown sugar, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a subtle hint of coconut.

It was harsh initially, but significantly improved once the ice melted. I would drink it again.