Woodinville Straight Bourbon Ginja Finished Cask Strength (2023 Harvest Release)

This is actually the Cask Strength version at 53.96% Nose - Tangy cherries with a sour profile, dark grape skins with a tannic quality, funky sour fruit, dark berries, caramel, and damp oak. Taste - Blackberries, caramel, honey with fruity notes, sweet and sour cherries, reminiscent of a sour cherry Lambic beer, a subtle bitterness/funk from clove/spice, cherry pits, a sweet, savory character like candied salmon or pork jerky. Finish - A lingering sweetness from damp oak, honey, bright sour berries, slightly tannic, caramel, dark chocolate, and oaky vanilla. Score - 92/100 Final Thoughts - Woodinville has truly excelled with this release. It masterfully balances unusual and intriguing elements while remaining engaging and delicious. I must emphasize its distinctiveness; it won't appeal to everyone, but I genuinely appreciate the flavor combination in this bottling. It's a bourbon, yet it possesses unique qualities that set it apart from other bourbons. The ginja cask finish introduces an interesting (in a very positive way) funky, sweet-and-sour fruit characteristic while retaining the solid foundation of a good bourbon. I believe it would be excellent enjoyed neat or as a component in a well-crafted cocktail that highlights its fruity funk. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Yes Would I buy a bottle? - Yes NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.