Traverse City Whiskey Co. Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon

It is quite good. However, unless you have a connection to Michigan and do not mind paying a bit extra to support a small producer, there are definitely better value options available. If it were priced at $55 per bottle, I would recommend it without reservation. At $70, it is competing with some very strong contenders. (That being said, if they are producing beverages this excellent now, I eagerly anticipate future releases. These individuals are skilled at their craft.) Regarding tasting notes: caramel, butterscotch... perhaps baking spice? I am not very adept at this. I am simply pleased that it possesses "classic bourbon notes" even if I cannot describe them, and none of the medicinal or clearly young taste I perceive in many other small producers. In summary... It is good. If you are beginning to build your collection, there are more cost-effective choices elsewhere. If you already have a substantial collection and are curious about the activities of some of the smaller producers, it is worth trying.

SELECTED STORE BOTTLE 6 years, 6 months 58% ABV TASTED NEAT AROMA - Abundant cherry and vanilla notes PALATE - A pleasing, velvety texture. Cherry is prominent immediately, complemented by caramel and vanilla. It evokes the flavor of those gummy bear candies. This drinks much lighter than its stated proof, closer to 100 proof. FINISH - Regrettably short. SHOULD YOU BUY? - This isn't particularly captivating or innovative. However, it is very accessible and easy to drink. Given its sweeter profile, it might appeal to those who enjoy sweet bourbons. WOULD YOU BUY AGAIN? - I would only consider repurchasing if I could sample it beforehand and find it superior or more intricate than this offering. Nonetheless, I do not regret trying this brand.

From the first whiff, you know this will be an intense experience. It registers at 58.4% alcohol and that is evident. Having earned double gold at the 2019 world spirits competition, it possesses a pleasing color for a 4-year-old bourbon. The aroma presents notes of toffee and butter alongside caramel and just a hint of oak. On the palate, it's not excessively sweet, and as it moves backward, the proof feels like it clears your ears. The finish mirrors the nose, taking your breath away initially, but subsequent sips become gentler. I assigned a high score because, despite originating far from traditional bourbon territory, it captures the authentic spirit of bourbon. Commendable effort, it's clear why it received multiple double golds for small batch in 2019.

Served neat. Uncorked approximately three months back. A four-year selection from Whiskey Bear. Initially, it seemed too young and underdeveloped. Let's see how some time to breathe impacts it. Still quite bright but a bit underdeveloped. Caramel is the main component here. Vanilla frosting notes. Touches of apple. Baking spices. It's almost like an apple parfait. Caramel and vanilla frosting are prominent again. Apple appears in the legs. Not much more to add. It's enjoyable. For a four-year MGP product, this is quite good. I'd rank it higher than Mic Drop 3.0 but still below the five-year SAOS that's available. At least it improved from the initial impression, and the strong youthfulness has faded.

This batch is 60.9% alcohol. The aroma is reminiscent of whiskey; nothing overly intricate but not unpleasant. There are also faint traces of what I will describe as toasted wood. Later, the scent gives off a vanilla waffle cone note, which I first detected in the taste. The initial sip on the palate was like a sweet waffle cone. Occasionally, I detect a subtle note I'd call "craft" whiskey characteristics. Other flavors provide a slightly medicinal note. The finish was brief, with little lingering.

The aroma is brown sugar and vanilla, but there is also a slightly more pronounced hint of alcohol than I would prefer. The taste is powerful, with heavy caramel and vanilla before a developing pepper burn emerges. Flavor, and more flavor, as the layers wash over your tongue. The finish is a sustained, slow burn that leaves a smooth caramel as the heat subsides. I was unsure if this would meet the standard of the 2019 San Francisco award, but it certainly does. A very enjoyable pour often!