Uncle Nearest Master Blend Edition

Experiencing this recent limited release bourbon was a thrill for me as a bourbon enthusiast. My wife's acquaintance facilitated obtaining a bottle of the new W B McBrayer bourbon. It turns out it originated from the great-great grandson of T B Ripy. Consequently, he generously invited me to the T B Ripy House in Lawrenceburg for one of their ongoing bourbon sessions. The event featured Sherrie Moore, Director of Whiskey Operations at the recently established Uncle Nearest. The locals refer to South Main Street as “Bourbon Built It.” Seven mansions within about three blocks were constructed by the local whiskey barons in the late 19th century. They are in varying conditions of (dis)repair, and Tom Ripy possesses extensive knowledge of local history (tbripyhome.com). Tom managed to persuade Sherrie to attend an evening of sharing Uncle Nearest and recounting his story as the Black man who instructed Jack Daniels in distillation. She brought 1856, 1884, and Master Blend Edition, which is exclusively available at the distillery for $129. The bourbon is presently sourced, and she confirmed my suspicions regarding sourcing but requested I keep it confidential. Sherrie has dedicated 35 years to the industry, primarily with Jack Daniels, where she was involved in operations. She expressed disappointment that the industry today is more focused on marketing and works diligently to ensure the product is ready. It was highly interesting to hear her discuss the long-term consequences of this year's cool, damp spring in KY and TN. She harbors significant concern that the bourbon is not aging properly due to hampered barrel migration and evaporation. I thoroughly enjoyed picking her brain. All three samples consist of approximately 85% corn, with the remainder evenly split between rye and barley. The first offering was her 1884 product, around six years old. It was quite sweet with a thin texture. It had minimal aroma and depth, with no discernible finish. Nearest 1856 was similar to my previous tasting, again sweet with slightly more depth (I rated it 2.75). Master Blend was a completely different experience. The three were presented in medicine cups, which I dislike, but the aroma of this one transcended that drawback. It was rich and inviting. It was heavy on caramel and molasses with maple notes in the background. Bring your nose very close to detect the rick house scent. It has a lingering mouthfeel, very chewy. Vanilla is prominent, evolving into creme custard on the palate with a burnt brown sugar finish that could have been slightly extended. The bourbon was good, but the event was exceptional.

NOSE Wood, dark fruit, baking spice, biscuit-like, caramel, char, vanilla, and dark cocoa. The wood note is dominant initially, but after a brief period, it mellows, revealing a rich blend of sweetness, spice, and baked goods. PALATE Wood, dark fruit, baking spice, biscuit-like, caramel, char, vanilla, and dark cocoa. A rich duplication of the aroma that flows smoothly across the palate even at full cask strength. This is exceptionally enjoyable. FINISH Lingering -> Wood, dark fruit, cocoa, and baking spice

Excellent flavor, with prominent cherry and cinnamon notes, and it's very smooth. If you have the opportunity, visit the distillery; their tour is outstanding.

The nose is very sweet. I tasted caramel and oak. The finish wasn't too spicy considering the high proof.

Very rich and full of taste. The initial seconds are great, though the lingering taste isn't as pleasing. Smoky and spicy.

The most excellent bourbon. So smooth with abundant sweetness. Tastes like banana.