Trader Joe's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Barrel Entry Proof

Color: Medium Copper-Amber Aroma: A faint alcohol scent. Sweet molasses. A familiar aroma for a high-proof spirit. Taste: (Consumed with a large ice sphere) The first sip was initially spicy and burning. A warm sensation spread through the chest and throat. It drinks hot, but the ice mellows it over time. Eventually, the sweetness detected in the aroma translates to the palate. As it coats the throat and the back of the palate, the finish brings forth notes of crisp apples stored in wooden barrels. Quite pleasant. This isn't a highly complex bourbon, but at its $30 price point, it's very enjoyable. It would be a great addition to a campfire gathering or a cool evening outdoor event.

Aromas of vanilla, oak, brown sugar, and a hint of baking spices. Moderate alcohol heat. Nice viscosity, surprisingly smooth for the proof, some mild alcohol burn in the back of the throat. Flavor is vanilla and brown sugar, maybe a hint of leather, some mild tanic dryness in the finish, a hint of baking spices lingering as well. Maybe a touch of cherry in the aftertaste? A really nice whiskey and an excellent value if you can find it.

Nose: Brown sugar, oak Palate: Dark, tobacco, leather, and oak Finish: Medium-length This is another private label from Trader Joe's, sourced from Barton 1792. It's the bottle to get at Trader Joe's. It has some body and mouthfeel, offering a solid sipping experience overall.

Nose: Typical bourbon. Notes of baked goods and a strong whiff of ethanol. Pleasant but a little bold. Taste: Cherries, rye spice, and a subtle nuttiness. Finish: Slightly on the bitter side. Not quite on par with a certain barrel-proof offering, but a solid barrel-proof option for the price.

Nose: Brown sugar, vanilla, cherry, honey, baking spices, and caramel. Palate: Tastes like a brown sugar cookie with hints of chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, and cherry. The proof provides a pleasant warmth. It leaves prominent legs in the glass.

It's sweet with vanilla. The best value for its 125 proof.