I was pretty sure I had made a great life decision when my girlfriend gave me a bottle of Big Bottom Port Cask finish for my birthday last year. We later tried the Cabernet finish and I’m revisiting it for WR and also because of the great price.
The Setup: neat, in a Glencairn glass
A: Rich caramel, reminds me of a nicer Canadian whiskey, hints of oak and berry
T: Leads with candied sweetness, caramel and honey, not very woody, definitely getting some of the darker wine/black cherry flavors. Adding a splash of water thins out the sweetness and opens it up nicely.
F: Medium bodied, still easy to drink neat at 91 proof.
F: Nice, lingering finish with lighter wood notes coming in as the sweetness subsides. Nice.
V: At a regular price of $39, not something I would regularly keep in the rotation, but on sale for $29, it’s difficult to pass this one up. My score is based on the regular price.
Bottom Line: A really nice variation on bourbon that adds some unique flavors without overpowering the bourbon. While it is a bit sweet neat, adding some water or an ice cube will even it out for you nicely. Would have like a more pronounced woody flavor and bite to it, especially at 91 proof.
Really nice in a Manhattan if you want to bring out those darker cherry flavors. This is one I will continue to pick up every once in awhile, especially during the warmer months!
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