Widow Jane Lucky Thirteen Single Barrel Straight Bourbon (2020 Release)

Uncertain about the specifics of this bottle, so apologies if batches differ. Nose: Pure MGP delight! A rye-forward bourbon with spice and sweetness cranked to the max. It's incredibly inviting, rich, and pours from the glass like few others. Fantastic. Taste: It contains everything. Mint, tobacco, apples, pears, an abundance of other fruits, vanilla, caramel, grain, and hints of ethanol. The complexity of this whiskey is immense. This review is brief, as these earthy rye notes are challenging for me to find parallels for. In my opinion, this is the finest MGP product without a finish I've encountered. The balance is absolutely perfect. I purchased five; three were for someone else. I regret not buying more.

Barrel #2078 Nose: Initially, abundant cherry notes emerge, quite pleasant and deep. It possesses those classic bourbon characteristics, strongly reminiscent of Stagg Jr. Palate: Oak presents immediately, though agreeably so. It's sweet and remarkably mellow. Despite being 93 proof, it drinks exceptionally smoothly. It isn't particularly viscous for its proof, yet it's packed with taste. I'm quite fond of it, though not completely captivated. Finish: A brief finish, dominated by oak and vanilla. Overall: To be frank, the brevity of this bourbon's finish is what elevates it from outstanding to merely very good. The aroma is, in my opinion, flawless, and the palate is nearly as impressive, but the finish is surprisingly short.

Beyond the woodiness of the barrel, the aroma presents hints of vanilla and butterscotch, along with some subtle fruitiness. More air reveals notes of amaretto, almonds, and macarons. The taste offers toffiness with some cotton candy towards the end. A touch of allspice and a whisper of maraschino cherry are also present. The finish has a light toastiness with molasses and brown sugar. With a medium body, this expression reveals much after the initial pour. While not the most intricate, it certainly provides enough to keep the experience engaging and satisfying.

Nose: Sugary cherry and vanilla with a hint of spice. It evokes a cozy feeling, though not strictly festive. Palate: The initial aromas carry over, introducing dried grapes and sweet figs. Cherry notes reappear alongside vanilla and spice. Finish: A sweet oak presence remains, with those warm spices fading gradually.

Solid offering. Compared with the 15 year old vault release. Have a bottle of the 2020 15 year old vault to try later. Overall, very pleased and will buy more. Thanks for the suggestion, a retailer employee.

Nose started with cherries and smoked apple cider before revealing notes of vanilla frosting. Starts off sweet on the palate before oak on the mid palate, and vanilla on the finish. Further sips reveal cream cheese frosting that lingers on the palate. A delicious release.