TX Straight Bourbon PX Sherry Finish

I was genuinely hoping this could serve as a substitute for the superb Belle Meade Sherry finish. I reside in Texas, I love this state, and I appreciate Texas whiskey, but this doesn't measure up to the Belle Sherry finished. It's another Texas wheat mash bourbon, so it has a somewhat earthy funk that's a matter of preference. Cornbread and light caramel are present but are overshadowed by the sherry. They've used damp casks and hurried the entire process to market (proper aging cannot be rushed). That said, it's packed with richness and heavy sherry flavor. Deep dark red fruits are prominent in a young, undeveloped way. There's some barrel character and a grassy quality that counteracts the wine but ultimately doesn't win. The good points outweigh the bad, but it's overpriced at around $60. I don't regret buying a bottle, but I won't repurchase it at this price point... 85/100... It's a delicious sherry-forward treat but needs a price reduction.

Nose: Dried grapes, stone fruit, dates, figs, spun sugar, citrus, nuts, marzipan, vanilla, cherry soda, sassafras, rich date cake. Palate: Dried grapes, caramel, dark plums, dates, almonds, maple, white chocolate, nutty pie, citrus, milk chocolate. Finish: Dried grapes, vanilla, nutty pie, spice, walnuts, nectar, citrus, dark chocolate.

This is my first experience with a sherry cask finish. The nose and palate still retain a hint of that grassy, damp hay quality often found in Texas spirits. It's more oak-forward, with some sweetness and tannins from the sherry.

It's sharp initially and remains so throughout. The sherry flavor is nice, but the bite is a bit too intense. I was expecting something smoother and mellower, so I was disappointed considering the price.

Vinous and a sweet oxidation note to complement the base bourbon. Warming, earthy, leathery, with a drying finish.

It's a nice, sweet, short flavor. You can tell it's from Texas. It's young and not complex. It doesn't burn too much. I like it.