Stolen American Whiskey 11 Year

Some investigation revealed an interesting background for this spirit, which a friend generously shared. This was a label started by two individuals in Auckland, New Zealand. Their initial offering was rum. They then received substantial investment from a US company, after which they launched this whiskey. They acquired this 11-year-old spirit from MGP and aged it for an additional 28 days (This seems peculiar – not a month, not a week, but precisely 28 days) in charred oak casks, aiming for a smokier profile. Upon the initial aroma, you detect toasted corn, similar to popcorn. The flavor is predominantly corn with a hint of smoke. As I generally find corn-forward whiskeys too sweet, please consider my opinion with that in mind. A subtle bitterness emerges at the conclusion, which was unexpected given its age. Regardless, for the price range of $35-40, it's a commendable endeavor. You're unlikely to find much better at that price point. Thanks to my friend for the sample!

Key Details: 92 proof. 46 percent alcohol by volume in a 750 milliliter bottle. Corn whiskey aged for approximately 11 years in used barrels at MGPI in Indiana and then given a secondary maturation in toasted barrels for around 28 days. Appearance: Deep copper, chestnut hue. Nose: My first smell reveals hints of toffee, chocolate, and a touch of sour oak. As I spent more time with it, I detected a note of dried dark fruit. The overall scent is reminiscent of a complex wine. Palate: Upon the first taste, I experience a toasted oak flavor that mellows into a sweet, rich molasses taste. The whiskey possesses the subtle smokiness associated with this brand, but it's more delicate than one might anticipate. The spirit has a velvety, smooth texture, leaving a pleasant coating in your mouth. It's well-balanced with a smooth conclusion, featuring spices like nutmeg and a hint of vanilla that lingers.

Smoky American whiskeys always capture my attention. I had noticed this bottle on a spirits app some time back but questioned if it was merely a marketing gimmick. Whiskey from MGP, coupled with a somewhat heavy-handed name... However, I came across it at a liquor store a couple of months ago, priced just under $40. Smoky American... worth the gamble. It proved to be $40 well spent. It presents notes of vanilla, creme brulee, and marshmallow. There's also a pleasant mint undertone. The smoke, though not overpowering, offers a nice counterpoint to the sweetness. And at 46% ABV, the warmth is just right. This will not appeal to those who dislike sweet drinks. But if that's acceptable to you, there's sufficient harmony and depth to maintain interest.

If you dislike finishes or stave-finished whiskey, avoid this. If you enjoy them, read on. You might appreciate this. Nose: Sweet, smoky (reminiscent of wood smoke, not peat smoke). Palate: Still sweet, but the toasted oak notes become more prominent. The marshmallow description on the bottle label starts to make sense. I envision sitting by a campfire, either watching marshmallows melt into the flames or making s'mores. Finish: Sweet charred wood, pit BBQ flavors, smooth, but with a spicy burn. Overall, it's well-balanced. The rating reflects its versatility more than its quality. As mentioned, this is not a whiskey for purists but rather a treat for the adventurous. It would pair well with BBQ, hiking, and a beautiful campfire in the mountains. Cheers!

This is an overlooked whiskey that meets expectations. About half the cost of another smoky whiskey, and I might even prefer this one (which isn't a knock against the other, a fine spirit in its own right). Remarkably rich vanilla aroma. Subtle smoke comes through on the palate. Someone described this as S’mores around a campfire, which is accurate. A pleasant way to end the night. The 11 years in the barrel were worthwhile. Excellent value and a distinctive sipper. Try it.

This marks my first review on this platform, despite having read countless others. I'm not typically one for writing reviews. Consequently, this will be the most concise yet accurate assessment you'll encounter. Don't take my word for it; read these three words and then sample the whiskey: Smoked crème brûlée.