Trail's End 10 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished with Oregon Oak

When visiting my son in Florida, his neighbor stops by for a tasting session. He truly outdid himself with this initial pour. Not much is known except it aged a decade in Kentucky followed by twelve months in Oregonian Garyanna oak. (Since it belongs to the white oak family, it remains bourbon). While whispers suggest it might be MGP, the label states Kentucky, and the flavor suggests a high-quality Beam product. The aroma presents sweet corn and peanut, reminiscent of numerous Knob Creek 120 store selections I've experienced. It offers a rich, sweet aroma with notes of toasted marshmallows and a hint of peanut, possibly with some subtle cherry undertones. After ten years aging, the alcohol is well-integrated, with the main flavors being cherry pie filling and a trace of caramel. As it sits, some cinnamon emerges, leading to a pleasant, perfectly balanced sweet oak finish. The texture is fantastic, and I can't fault it. Whatever the process, it's effective. Getting a bottle is tough, as it's only sold in Oregon and Washington.

This is a treasure. If its details – a Heaven Hill 10 year toasted finish at 107 proof – were advertised, it would fetch double the price. As the glass sits and airs out, the profile shifts from toasted walnuts to pancakes and syrup. I purchased this bottle for $46 and am delighted that such gems can still be found with diligent research.

Rich caramel, vanilla, and cherry notes evolve into stronger oak, toasted elements, cashew, leather, and a more pronounced baking spice. The finish lingers, woody, with a pleasant spice throughout. While I prefer the 8-year apple brandy cask, individuals who favor bolder bourbons will likely appreciate this

This resembles a higher-rated Knob Creek 12, with a more appealing aroma but a slightly less impactful taste. The conclusion is comparable. I detect nuttiness alongside caramel, vanilla, and marshmallow. I wish the cherry notes from the aroma had translated to the palate, though that might be due to dilution. I would be keen to experience this at a greater alcohol percentage.

Aged ten years in Oregon oak, this bourbon is unfiltered and 105 proof. It tastes like a ten-year Beam, though the producer is unknown.

Initially sweet, followed by oak, and concluding with a pleasant warming sensation. Truly excellent for enjoying neat.