Town Branch Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon

From a Liquor Barn barrel selection, this bottle is #83 of 206, filled from barrel #1260 on 10MAY2014 and uncorked 03AUG2020. I'm not sure what compelled me to grab this, beyond the allure of a barrel selection, which I seem unable to pass up. While the regular Town Branch bourbon is rather poor, I recall their rye being quite acceptable. With this single barrel, aged slightly over six years, there might be enough here to unlock more vibrant tastes. The aroma is heavy with ethanol, teetering on the edge of being too intense. I detect a subtle caramel scent and some dark sugar, though I can't quite pinpoint it as brown sugar. The initial sip coats the mouth, more than anticipated for its alcohol content. I was quite worried when the bottle suggested black cherry notes, but tasting it now, I can confirm a dark berry presence, which thankfully doesn't dominate. The wood character is also present, perhaps as a toasted note rather than charred, as I don't find any typical vanilla or caramel notes. The finish is quite fiery, strongly emphasizing the dominant flavor of cooked berries, reminiscent of a fine Pinot Noir. I generally dislike bourbons with fruitiness, which often signals younger spirits. However, this six-year expression has matured sufficiently to overcome the raw grain notes found in younger bourbons, with the barrel's influence having mellowed it effectively, while the proof allows the flavors to shine through clearly. If, for some peculiar reason, you seek a bourbon with fruity notes that isn't monotonous, this is the one.

Initially, the aroma was subtle, with faint hints of vanilla and brown sugar. However, it deteriorated over time. The aroma shifted to resemble diesel fumes, and the taste became extremely astringent, akin to accidentally ingesting hand sanitizer, leaving a toxic aftertaste. Most of the contents were returned to the bottle. I also sent an email to the distillery to inform them of this undrinkable mixture.

Nose: Not much on the smell, perhaps a little oak. Taste: I detect caramel with some heat. The heat subsides as I continue drinking. Finish: Medium length, characterized by heat and some caramel. With Water: Yes. I believe water improves it. It reduces some of the heat, allowing me to perceive more caramel and a sweet warmth.

This is far too dominated by berries for my preference. It's overwhelming! The aroma has berries, the first sip has a slight whiskey taste, but then it vanishes, and berries are prominent throughout the finish. I can't detect anything other than berries and will not purchase this again. A definite pass for me.

A musty scent like a basement, with brown sugar and caramel notes. These flavors come through vibrantly on the palate. This particular bottle was chosen by a specific liquor store. At $43.99, it's an essential purchase.

Satisfactory when consumed neat. Likely better served over ice or with water. The palate is fruit-forward, quickly transitioning to caramel and cinnamon. A slight warmth is felt in the throat.