Union Horse Reserve Straight Bourbon

Medium legs observed in the glass. My sense of smell is completely off today. The initial taste is honey with a bit of grass, followed by vanilla and rye bread with cloves. The finish has smoke, a touch of white pepper, and oak. It's quite short. The mouthfeel is very thin, lacking substance. My wife finds it not sweet enough, and I don't find it spicy enough. This will likely be relegated to mixers. I have a later batch to try after this one is finished.

Rating scale: With ice cube 0-1.5: Undrinkable. Only suitable for mixing or discarding. 2: Poor. Drinkable, but significantly flawed. 2.5: Below average. Acceptable, but bland or somewhat flawed. 3: Good. Decent quality, but I wouldn't rush to repurchase. 3.5: Very good. I'd happily keep a bottle. 4: Excellent. I'd want a case. A go-to option worthy of celebration. 4.5: Incredible. Truly high-end, elite, very noteworthy. 5: Perfect. Nearly flawless and an all-time favorite.

Sweet and spicy on the palate, with perhaps some oak. No other notable flavors emerge besides the sweetness. The finish is of moderate to short duration. Be aware of some heat with this one. Despite that, it's still a respectable whiskey to have on hand. It's also suitable for introducing friends who are new to whiskey.

Second City store selection. It's acceptable. It drinks lighter than its stated proof, with a slightly peculiar minty medicinal flavor, similar to some less refined four roses expressions. It's not bad for a 5-year-old, I wouldn't repurchase, but I found it interesting to try for the cost. A single barrel, over 60% ABV.

It's acceptable. The aroma is pleasing, and the taste is good, richer than expected for a local spirit. Served on a large ice sphere, it was nicely balanced by the end. I will try it neat next time.

Aroma: sweet, vanilla, oak, and a little floral. A very potent aroma. Taste: smooth, sweet, vanilla, and oak Finish: medium duration, sweet and oak A truly excellent bourbon.