Spirits Reviews

These are reviews, and should not be confused with tasting notes. All reviews are done neat, and in a NEAT glass utilizing a 100 point scoring system, similar to ones used in competitions. Not all reviews will have complete tasting notes, as I personally feel they can be very subjective, and have read too many that left me shaking my head. The review takes into account other nuances of the spirits, such as complexity, balance, and the overall merit of the spirit within the categories. Some reviews may sound as if I’m talking to you in the spirits section of a liquor store.

Nose – 25 Points
Mouth-Feel – 20 Points
Taste – 25 Points
Finish – 20 Points
Overall Impression – 10 Points

Scoring

95 – 100, Truly a classic spirit for its category
90 – 94, An outstanding spirit with superior character and style
85 – 89, A very good spirit with special or unique qualities
80 – 84, A good, solid, and well-made spirit
75 – 79, A mediocre or average spirit, but has some flaws

Buying Guide

1 Cat – Overpriced
2 Cats – High
3 Cats – Average
4 Cats – Bargain
5 Cats – Steal

The buying guide is just that, an unbiased tool to assist with purchasing decisions. 3 Cats means that the spirit is within the average price for that particular spirit, and is not a negative indicator.

I’m very open, so feel free to contact me for a breakdown of any review or score. I’m happy to share!
Slainte,
Tony

S No.	Brand	Spirit	MSRP	Proof	Category	Buying Guide	Score	Rater	Review
1	Strega	Strega	$35	40.00%	Liqueur	4	92,00	Tony
2	Spirits of French Lick	Aquavit	$30	45.00%	Botanicals	4	97,00	Tony	A quintessential Aquavit that will take your mind and palate to Scandinavia!! Pumpernickel, rye, some citrus, and possibly a hint of anise lead the way, with an unidentified flavor there as well. At 92 Proof, it never tastes hot, and the higher ABV adds body, power and intensity to the finish!! An exemplary Aquavit.
3	Grangestone	12YR	$34	40.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	4	83,00	Tony
4	Knappogue Castle	12YR Single Barrel	$40	46.00%	Irish - Single Malt	4	88,00	Tony	Knappogue Castle is a brand of Single Malt Irish Whiskey produced by Castle Brands, and is sourced from other distilleries, including Cooley. This is a 12 YR Single Barrel picked by Liquor Barn, and bottled at a nice 46%. It is quite lovely, well balanced, and at a solid price!
5	George Remus	Remus Repeal Reserve Series I	$86	47.00%	Bourbon	4	93,00	Tony	Remus Repeal Reserve is distilled by MGP, and is a blend of 50% 2005 Bourbon 21% Rye, 15% 2006 Bourbon 36% Rye, and 35% 2006 Bourbon 21% Rye. It ticks off everything that you would want in a Premium Bourbon; Flavor, Balance, Finish, and all at a solid 94 Proof. With many Bourbons costing much more than this these days, it becomes a bargain at $86! A well-crafted, and blended Bourbon!!
6	Jeptha Creed	4 Grain Bloody Butcher 2YR+	$50	47.00%	Bourbon	2	775,00	Tony
7	Hard Truth	Cinnamon Vodka	$20	30.00%	Vodka	3	76,00	Tony
8	Hard Truth	Toasted Coconut Rum	$20	21.00%	Rum	3	85,00	Tony
9	Goodwood	12YR Stout Barrel Finish	$130	45.00%	Bourbon	1	80,00	Tony	As it is opening, the stout finish becomes more apparent, with some malt and cocoa joining some bourbon flavors. Somewhat balanced nose. Although finished for only 3 months, the stout seems to overtake the bourbon. Something seems off and out of balance on the finish.
10	Old Forester	Single Barrel - Good Day, Bad Day	$40	45.00%	Bourbon	4	90,00	Tony
11	Little Book	Little Book Chapter 2, Noe Simple Task	$90	59.40%	Blended Whiskey	3	875,00	Tony	A blend of 8YR KY Straight Rye, 40YR Canadian Whisky, and 13YR Canadian Rye Whisky. The nose leads off with some spice and fruit notes. More spice and oak on the palate, with maybe some vanilla. This is a well-blended whiskey, but the oak and spice are too much for me personally, and borderline in excess.
12	Jeptha Creed	Coffee Vodka	$25	40.00%	Vodka	4	93,00	Tony
13	Larceny	Barrel Proof 2018	$95	57.70%	Bourbon	2	75,00	Tony
14	Jefferson's	Chateau Pichon Baron	$130	45.00%	Bourbon	4	96,00	Tony
15	Foursquare	11 YR Zinfandel Cask	$60	43.00%	Rum	4	95,00	Tony	The nose reeks of various fruit notes from the Barbados Rum and Zinfandel Cask. What a bouquet!!! The wine finish is very well balanced with the rum! The mouth feel is rich from the wine cask, and the palate follows through on the nose with a long finish! An outstanding rum and very well finished!!
16	Kentucky Owl	Confiscated	$120	48.20%	Bourbon	2	885,00	Tony	Kentucky Owl Confiscated has a somewhat delicate nose, with mild oak suggesting some aging. The palate is well rounded, with some delicate flavors as well, and not on the sweeter side as some bourbons can be. The finish is lengthy, with some cinnamon spice, and the oak spice being reigned in. This is a nice bourbon, and suggests some age. The lack of information and transparency provided by Kentucky Owl makes this price high, and as a consumer, would pass for $120 and no info.
17	Roger Groult	Venerable	$80	41.00%	Calvados	4	925,00	Tony	A blend of Calvados over 18 YR. Apple and spices are wonderfully balanced on the nose. The mouth-feel and palate are alive with fruit, spice, and some gingerbread. Most Calvados, Cognac & Armagnac spend the bulk of their lifetime in old casks to avoid overtly prominent wood tannins and influence, but this still adds some oaky spice notes, yet minimal. This is just showing the aging potential, and why older Calvados is right there with Cognac!
18	Bowman	Port Finish	$45	46.00%	Bourbon	4	865,00	Tony
19	Hamilton	Saint Lucia 9YR	$70	67.40%	Rum	4	895,00	Tony	Hamilton Saint Lucia 9 YR is from Ed Hamilton's and the Ministry of Rum's Private Collection. It's Pot Distilled from the Fermentation of Guyanese molasses, which is quite evident on the nose, which indicates an intense and serious rum!!! Cane, tropical fruits, some spice and smoke are all present on the nose and palate. This is a true British Style rum that offers pungent, and intense, bold flavors! This style, and at 67.4%, are not for everyone!
20	Santa Teresa	1796	$45	40.00%	Rum	5	915,00	Tony	Solera Aged. The nose leads off with some fruity notes, maybe cherries and plum? Possible wine cask involved? Butterscotch and some spice follow as it opens. All are well balanced and integrated on the palate and in the finish. A stellar rum from Venezuela, and a bargain!!!
21	Copper & Kings	Zmaj Serbian Juniper Finished Absinthe	$70	65.00%	Botanicals	3	895,00	Tony
22	Parker's Heritage	13th Edition 8YR Heavy Char Rye	$150	52.50%	Rye	1	815,00	Tony	The nose was a mix of rye and bourbonesque qualities with spice, char, and maybe some caramel? Just guessing a low percentage, or bare minimum rye, followed by a bit of corn. Maybe some fruits mingled with a lot of spice on the palate. A little disappointing at $150.
23	Willett	Small Batch Rye 4YR	$60	53.10%	Rye	3	91,00	Tony	The nose indicates a low to medium percentage of rye, followed by corn and barley. Almost a marriage of bourbon and rye. The palate is well balanced with fruit and spice in a long finish! A well-made rye!
24	Amrut	Fusion	$73	50.00%	Indian Whisky	4	955,00	Tony	Amrut Fusion is created from a mix of 75% un-peated Indian barley and 25% peated Scottish barley. Separately distilled and aged for 4YR, then "fused" together for an additional 3 months. Fruit, malt and a touch of smoke is balanced nicely on the nose. Fruit, chocolate or toffee, oak spice, and a touch of smoke are all incredibly balanced on the palate, with a long finish. Outstanding!!
25	Nikka	Taketsuru Pure Malt	$65	43.00%	Japanese - Blended Malt	3	91,00	Tony	Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt is a blended malt containing a high percentage from Miyagikyo, with the remainder coming from Yoichi. Aged on average for around 10YR in different casks, including sherry. Very clean on the nose with fruit and light malt. Rich, fruity, and slight spice on the palate, with a generous and pleasing finish. There is a richness indicating some sherry wood influence. An ideal entry point to Nikka Whisky.
26	Cardenal Mendoza	Gran Reserva	$60	40.00%	Brandy	4	91,00	Tony	Cardenal Mendoza Solera Gran Reserva is created from 100% holandas (distilled in alquitaras, or pot stills, up to 70% alcohol). Aged for an average of 15 YR in Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. The nose is well balanced with notes of sherry, raisin and prune. The palate is rich with those same sherry, raisin, and prune notes. A lingering mouth-feel and finish.
27	Spirits of French Lick	Old Clifty Apple Brandy 2YR	$48	45.00%	Brandy	3	865,00	Tony	Fermented from the fresh juice of Michigan apples and double pot distilled. Aged in 63 gallon once used re-char red wine barrels with a #2 char and new American oak toasted head. The nose is alive with the red apples and some caramel. The mouth-feel is full, with apple pie and spices throughout the palate, with hints of cinnamon. This is right where it should be for 2YR, and I like how the wood is reigned in.
28	Neeley Family Distillery	Moonshine	$25	60.10%	Moonshine	4	92,00	Tony	Neeley Family Distillery Moonshine is Kentucky Proud, and Triple Pot-Distilled from sweet corn and cane sugar. The nose is very clean, and not "hot" for 60.1%. The balance of the corn and cane is truly harmonious, and is showcased on the palate, in the mouth-feel, and in the finish. This is a very clean, well-crafted moonshine, and not just one to rush on the shelves, or a gimmick. Kudos! Kentucky Proud, and made with pride!!
29	Bertrand	XO	$160	40.00%	Cognac	4	96,00	Tony	Bertrand XO is a blend of Petite Champagne aged 35 and 40 years. Just a lovely nose, with dried fruits, and a little vanilla and wood spice. I want to crawl into the glass!!! The palate is alive with dried and candied fruits, some kind of nut, and a hint of chocolate? The finish is extremely long, and so pleasing. This is an outstanding XO Cognac!!!
30	Chateau des Plassons	Extra Old		40.00%	Cognac	3	92,00	Tony
31	Normandin Mercier	XO	$150	40.00%	Cognac	4	925,00	Tony	Normandin Mercier XO Cognac is a blend of 100% Grande Champagne, and is a blend of 20 - 45YR, with an average age of 30YR. The fruit really leads the way on the nose with dried fruit, citrus, and some nuts and spice. Some light rancio notes appear as it opens more, an indicator of Grande Champagne Cognac that is well aged. The palate is full with dried fruit and spices, and delivers a long finish. Silver in San Francisco in 2017? Not so sure. This is a perfect example of a well-aged, and blended, Grande Champagne Cognac!!!
32	Pasquet	L'Espirit de Famille Andre'	$173	51.40%	Cognac	3	915,00	Tony	100% Petite Champagne Cru, 525 Bottles. The nose is very elegant with fruit and floral notes. Fruit and spice linger in a long finish. This is both elegant and bold, and why I wish that some of these cognacs were available here in the US! Very nice!!
33	Crooked Water Spirits	Old Fashioned	$48	37.50%	RTD	3	92,00	Tony	Crooked Water Spirits Old Fashioned is bourbon based, and distilled by Yahara Bay Distillers. It is bottled at 75 Proof. The demerara sweetness is more evident at the rim of the glass. The nose is very well balanced for a pre-made cocktail, with the bourbon, demerara and bitters all working in harmony. The palate rings true, with the bourbon lingering on the finish. This is an outstanding ready-to-drink cocktail, and Old Fashioned!! Well done!!
34	Tattersall	Old Fashioned	$35	35.00%	RTD	3	855,00	Tony
35	Forgeron	Barrique 1989	$71	58.00%	Cognac	4	905,00	Tony	100% Grande Champagne. This is a spice bomb on the nose, as in baking spices, along with some fruit. More spices on the palate, with the fruit being secondary. The finish is long, with some oak spice present. This is a rare cask strength and Vintage Cognac at 58%, and is big and bold! More please!!
36	Chateau de Montifaud	XO Silver	$110	40.00%	Cognac	4	90,00	Tony	Chateau de Montifaud XO Silver is 20+ YR old and produced from 100% Petite Champagne. A very delicate and elegant nose of dried fruits and light spice. The palate is almost identical to the nose, with more soft fruit notes, but the finish is long, with some light spice. Quite enjoyable!
37	Prunier	20YR	$165	40.00%	Cognac	4	885,00	Tony	Prunier 20YR is produced from a 50/50 blend of 92 and 96 vintages. They buy the eau-de-vie from wine growers and distillers each year, then age the Cognac in their own cellars. The nose has a sweetness to it, with fruit and possibly honey. The palate has some woodiness and floral notes, with some toffee and nuts.
38	Chateau des Plassons	XO	$80	40.00%	Cognac	4	88,00	Tony	Chateau des Plassons XO is produced from 100% Bons Bois Cru eau-de-vie. There is almost a youthfulness to the nose, with some fruit and floral notes. Maybe some light spice. Would just guess that this has an avg age of 15 - 20YR. Fruit dominates the palate, with some spice along for the ride. The finish is long and pleasing. Another very nice Bons Bois Cognac!!!
39	Renault	Carte d'Argent XO	$365	40.00%	Cognac	4	95,00	Tony
40	Audry	Memorial Reserve	$130	42.00%	Cognac	5	97,00	Tony	Audry Memorial Reserve Cognac is a blend of Fine Champagne aged between 30 - 60YR. Floral, fruit, and some spice notes initially on the nose. I swear that some pine appears after a few minutes? Some chocolate and rancio notes appear a few minutes after that as well. Very complex!! It's full bodied, with some anise and honey on the finish. What the hell? The finish is very long, and this cognac is amazing and so balanced!
41	Andre Petit	XO Extra	$95	40.00%	Cognac	5	895,00	Tony	Andre Petit Extra is a blend of Petite Champagne and Fins Bois, has an average age of 20YR, and includes some 35YR. The nose is soft with some fruit and a little spice. After several minutes, some light rancio appears. The palate brings much more spiciness, and a little more wood influence than most cognacs, but it's intentional. Well balanced with a lengthy finish. A steal for roughly $95!!
42	Pinnacle	Peppermint Bark	$12	35.00%	Vodka	3	815,00	Tony	Made from Imitation Peppermint Bark. As you would expect, mint is on the nose, but almost liqueurish. There is some sweetness, but finishes a little dry, and has a lengthy finish. I cannot help but feel that there is some artificial sweetness and/or flavors added, but can see its appeal, maybe in cocktails?
43	Middle West Spirits	Michelone Reserve	$42	47.50%	Bourbon	3	86,00	Tony
44	Forgeron	XO	$80	45.00%	Cognac	5	955,00	Tony
45	Deau	Louis Memory	$330	40.00%	Cognac	4	925,00	Tony	Deau Louis Memory is a blend of 100% Grande Champagne, and the oldest eau-de-vie in the blend dates back to 1916. The initial nose brings some sweet fruit notes. As it opens, some fig and cinnamon appear, along with some rancio, indicating some old eau-de-vie in the blend. Fruit, cinnamon and some spice are all well balanced on the palate in a lingering and long finish!!
46	Niagara Craft Spirits	Sinferno	$30	33.00%	Gin	2	735,00	Tony	Sinferno is a Hot Cinnamon flavored Gin distilled by Niagara Craft Spirits LLC. It is distilled from New York State grain or fruit. Okay? The cinnamon dominates the nose, with the gin really in the background. This is more like a cinnamon flavored neutral spirit, or liqueur, than a flavored gin. Cinnamon really dominates it all the way around, and even at 33%, the proof is more like a liqueur than a flavored gin.
47	A de Fussigny	Selection	$40	40.00%	Cognac	4	84,00	Tony
48	L'Encantada	1991, 26YR, SB Bas Armagnac	$120	48.60%	Armagnac	4	905,00	Tony	Single Barrel Project, Cask 102, 205 Bottles. Lovely fruit on the nose, with a little spice. The fruit and spice is well balanced on the palate, and a little bolder at cask strength with a nice finish!
49	Black Bull	40YR Batch 1	$230	40.20%	Scotch - Blended	4	935,00	Tony	Black Bull is a line of Blended Scotch in the Duncan Taylor portfolio. This 40YR, Batch 1, contains 40 - 44YR whiskies from Bunnahabhain, Glenfarclas, Glenlivet, Glenburgie, Highland Park, Miltonduff, Springbank, Tamdhu, and Invergordon. It contains 90% Single Malt, 10% Single Grain, and was bottled on 11/09 at Cask Strength and is non-chill filtered and non-coloured. The oak is really reigned in on the nose, has some sweetness, with fruit, candied fruit, and grassy notes. Some gentle oak on the finish, and possibly some light peatiness. Very well balanced, and so drinkable! Damn!! This is an art, and why you don't put down all blends!
50	Oban	Distillers Edition 2018	$105	43.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	885,00	Tony
51	Dalmore	Cigar Malt Reserve	$140	44.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	94,00	Tony	Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve is matured initially in ex-Bourbon and 30YR Matusalem Oloroso sherry, then finished in premier cru Cabernet Sauvignon casks. The sherry and wine finish is evident, but well balanced on the nose, and is rich with fruit notes and some spices. As it opens more, the Cabernet becomes much more evident. More fruit and spices on the palate, and in a long finish. This is very good, and can see it being paired with a cigar!!
52	Strathisla	Lonach 42YR	$200	41.10%	Scotch - Single Malt	5	945,00	Tony	Distilled in 1967. Sweet caramel and honey are intertwined wonderfully with an assortment of fruits on the nose. Everything is well balanced on the palate, with some spice and light oak on the finish. This is still lively at 42YR old, and the oak reigned in. I wish that more of these older expressions of Strathisla were available, but at this price!
53	Havana Club	Barrel Proof	$80	45.00%	Rum	5	96,00	Tony	Havana Club Barrel Proof was first aged in older white oak casks, blended, and finished in specially 'selected' younger fresh oak casks. The nose is very clean, with little evidence of any charring, and may have been triple distilled. Lighter in color, with sweet toffee and spice on the nose. There's almost an Anise note as it opens. Just a heavenly nose!!! Toffee, spice, a touch of oak, and sweet molasses are so well balanced in the palate!!! I feel like I'm nitpicking, as there really are no flaws in this rum. Spectacular!!
54	Longrow	Red 11YR Cab Franc	$105	55.90%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	89,00	Tony	Longrow is the more peated line from Springbank Distillery. This limited 11YR Cab Franc finish spent 9YR in bourbon casks, and 2YR Cabernet Franc casks. The peat and wine finish are balanced nicely on the nose, especially at 55.9%. Both are balanced nicely on the palate as well, with the Cab Franc fruit complimenting the Longrow!! Quite tasty!!
55	Knappogue Castle	16YR Twin Wood	$90	40.00%	Irish - Single Malt	4	91,00	Tony	Knappogue Castle 16YR Twin Wood Single Malt Irish Whiskey was aged for 15+ YR in ex-Bourbon casks, and then spent 9 months in ex Oloroso Sherry casks. Distilled in 1994, Bottled in 2010, and 1900 bottles. Over the course of 10+ minutes, the noes goes from sherry dominant, to the triple distilled light maltiness, and then to a nice balance of the two, with fruit, toasted nuts, and some vanilla. The finish is long, and well balanced. An outstanding Knappogue Castle, and Irish Single Malt!!
56	Darroze	1967 49 YR Bas Armagnac	$200	49.00%	Armagnac	5	95,00	Tony	This 49YR Darroze 1967 Bas-Armagnac was distilled in 1967 at Domaine De Lamarquette, and bottled in 2016. It is 100% Baco Blanc, or Baco 22A, and bottled at 49% abv. The initial nose is bolder than most Bas Armagnacs, from the abv and the Baco being the only grape used. Just lovely fruit and burnt orange are revealed on the nose, and shows no signs of being in oak for nearly half a century. The more it opens, cream brulee shows up. Damn!! The mouth feel is full bodied for an Armagnac, which tend to be elegant, and leads into more fruit and spice in a long finish that is so well balanced!! This is why I LOVE Armagnac!!!
57	Chambord	Chambord	$35	16.50%	Liqueur	4	91,00	Tony	Chambord is a French Liqueur that is created by infusing neutral spirits with raspberries and blackberries. A 2nd infusion extracts even more flavor from the fruit. After 6 weeks total, the berries are pressed, and the infused alcohol, along with the fruit juices and sugars, is then blended with extracts of black raspberries, black currants, Madagascar Vanilla, herbs, and Cognac. It is a Proprietary blend. The raspberry leads the charge, with blackberry a distant second initially. The berries are really the story, with some vanilla showing on the finish. The sweetness tastes all natural, which is what you want in a Liqueur. Chambord also mixes wonderfully with Prosecco for a Kir Royale!
58	Lapponia	Lakka	$23	21.00%	Liqueur	4	93,00	Tony	Lakka is a Liqueur that is prominent in Finland, where cloudberries are steeped in grain neutral spirit for 2 - 6 months. Soaked in oak barrels for months, natural sweeteners, like honey, and spices, like cinnamon or clove, are added to the alcohol. The berries lead the way, with some of the above mentioned honey and spices in the background. The mouth-feel is rich and thick, with more berry and honey on the palate, along with some subtle spice. The finish is long, and doesn't taste artificially sweetened!
59	Renault	Heritage Collection 1989	$370	42.70%	Cognac	2	93,00	Tony	Renault Heritage Collection 1989 is a rare vintage Cognac, most of which are blends. It was produced from 100% Petite Champagne in lightly toasted oak, is 26 YR, and produced 600 Bottles. This is an elegant Cognac, with lovely fruit on the nose, which seems enhanced from the light oak influence. This also shows great finesse, but with a surprisingly long finish in the finish. Renault said that 1989 was an exceptional year for the Cognac produced, and this Vintage Cognac supports that!!
60	Reisetbauer	12YR Single Malt	$125	48.00%	Austrian Whisky	2	805,00	Tony	Reisetbauer 12YR Single Malt is an Austrian Whisky that was aged for 12YR in Chardonnay and Trockenbeerenauslese oak barrels, which is a sweet Austrian dessert wine. The nose is an array of maltiness, wet grass or hay, and grape must. Sadly, the wine casks are over the top on the finish, and take away from the original character of the barley and whisky.
61	Germain-Robin	Anno Domini 2009	$400	40.00%	Brandy	3	955,00	Tony	Germain-robin Anno Domini 2009 is a solera-style blend dating back to 1983, with ages from 15+ to 30YR, and contains some dry-farmed Palomino from the late 80's, perhaps the rarest and most treasured gem in the library. 300 Bottles. The nose leads off with rich fruit, and suggesting Pinot Noir in the blend. As it opens more, some oak spice is nicely balanced in. Big fruit from the Pinot, and more spice in a long finish!! An outstanding American Brandy!!
62	Redbreast	12YR	$55	40.00%	Irish - Pot Still	4	95,00	Tony	Aged in ex-bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks. Fruit is prominent, with some spiciness on the nose. Very elegant, with some honey notes appearing as it opens more. Sherry fruit, and some spice in a long finish. This is the definition of Pot Still Irish Whisky!!
63	Resilient	6YR Single Barrel Rye	$95	58.00%	Rye	3	895,00	Tony	Resilient 6YR Straight Rye Whisky is a near 7YR MGP Single Barrel Rye, Barrel #1, Bottle 116, Filled 2/13, Bottled 2/20, 95/5 Rye, and has a #4 Char. As you would expect from the MGP 95/5 Mash bill, there is the bold rye spiciness, and some floral and fruit notes, but are amplified by the 116 proof, and this is a well-balanced Single Barrel. The Retail is around $95, but worth the price of admission for high proof MGP Rye lovers!
64	Hedonist	Hedonist	$35	29.00%	Liqueur	3	915,00	Tony	Hedonist is a French Liqueur produced from Cognac, fresh ginger, and vanilla. Ginger and pepper spice lead off on the nose, with some lime in the background. The ginger and pepper, along with lime cola are all well balanced on the palate, with a medium finish. Not as sweet as most liqueurs, easy to drink, and would be a great digestive, possibly settling the stomach after a big meal.
65	Hennessy	Pure White	$45	40.00%	Cognac	3	84,00	Tony	Hennessy Pure White is a blend of Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, and Fins Bois eau-de-vie, aged from 2 - 50 YR, and is difficult to produce. Light, clean fresh fruit on the nose, with some apple perhaps. Not aggressive at all, and some floral notes appear as it opens more. Fresh fruit and floral on the palate, in a long, but light and delicate finish. Not my cup of tea, but can appreciate it, and see its appeal and versatility!
66	Forty Creek	Copper Pot Reserve	$30	43.00%	Canadian Whisky	4	87,00	Tony	Forty Creek Copper Pot Reserve is a Canadian Whisky, where the rye, corn, and barley are each distilled separately in a pot still, aged separately, and when each individual whisky is deemed ready, they are blended together and aged in oak again. Oak and spice is nicely balanced out on the nose by the barley and corn. The palate is loaded with spiciness, but yet with some sweetness. This is the Barrel Select on steroids, and I'll gladly pour this for anyone who says they don't like Canadian Whisky!!
67	Renegade	Panama 1997	$70	46.00%	Rum	4	97,00	Tony	Renegade Panama Rum 1997 (Don Jose), is a Panama Rum aged 10 YR in ex-bourbon casks, then shipped to the Bruichladdich distillery in Scotland where it is finished in Port casks, then bottled. 1,390 bottles were produced. The port is evident on the nose initially with some red fruit, along with some spices. As it opens more, rich brown sugar appears. A bit complex, and so well balanced!! That same brown sugar, red fruits, spices, and some oak spice are all very well balanced on the palate, and in a lengthy finish. Outstanding!!
68	Holi	Gin	$25	40.00%	Gin	3	85,00	Tony	Holi Gin starts as a grain neutral spirit from corn, and is produced from traditional botanicals and juniper. Taking inspiration from their founder's Indian heritage, it is also spiced with masala chai. The chai spices are the star of the show, and lead the way on the nose and in the palate, with the juniper and other botanicals present, but playing second fiddle. I found this to be a nice, and unique gin that also mixes very well with Bailey's for a Chai Latte.
69	Green Spot	Chateau Leoville Barton	$70	46.00%	Irish - Pot Still	4	91,00	Tony	Green Spot Chateau Leoville Barton was aged in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, then finished for 1 - 2 years in Bordeaux wine casks. A lovely mix of fruits initially greets the nose from the sherry and wine casks. The more it opens, it reminds me of a fall apple gingerbread. Some apple and spice finish it off. The wine finish really compliments this, and adds another layer and dimension.
70	Bertrand	Heritage	$335	49.20%	Cognac	4	100,00	Tony	Bertrand Heritage is a 60+ YR old Cognac produced from 100% Petite Champagne, bottled at Cask Strength, 49.2%, and yielded only 500 Bottles. Fruit, floral, and some spice notes lead off on the nose, with some lovely rancio joining over time. Just a phenomenal nose that makes you want to crawl up in the glass. Everything is so well balanced for this age. Fruit, some honey, and the rancio are harmoniously balanced with some wood spice on the palate. I really think the cask strength elevated what was already a stellar Cognac!!
71	Bakery Hill	Peated Single Malt Cask Strength	$153	60.90%	Australian Whisky	3	915,00	Tony	Bakery Hill Cask Strength Peated Malt is an Australian Whisky that's bottled at 60.9%. Right out of the bottle, there is a nice balance of malt and peat, and does not show signs of that proof! Reminds me a little of an Ardbeg, but with some different characteristics. As it opens more, the malt moves to the center of attention. The palate is well balanced with a long finish! Any fan of peated scotches will enjoy this. I've been saying for years that there is good Whisk(e)y being made all over the world now, and this proves it!!
72	Big Peat	Christmas Edition 2015	$55	53.80%	Scotch - Blended Malt	4	93,00	Tony	Douglas Laing's Big Peat Christmas Edition 2015 is a Blended Malt Scotch, and even more specifically, a Blended Islay Malt Scotch, including Ardbeg, Caol Ila, Bowmore, and Port Ellen. The nose is like a dying bonfire, without the intensity, along with some coastal sea salt. I feel like it's heavy on the Caol Ila and Ardbeg, but very well balanced. Some fruit notes on the palate, followed by that bonfire and sea salt. Distinctively Islay, and a well-crafted Blend.
73	Pasquet	L'Espirit de Famille Christian	$143	54.10%	Cognac	4	935,00	Tony	Pasquet L'Espirit de Famille Christian is a Single Cask Cognac that was distilled in 1988 from 100% Petite Champagne. It was bottled at Cask Strength, 54.1%, and yielded 303 bottles. 11 casks were sampled, and they chose a winner!! Lovely notes of nut, brown sugar, and some spice on the nose, with some fruit notes appearing as it opens more. The palate delivers everything on the nose, along with some additional peppery spices, and in a long finish!
74	Forty Creek	Barrel Select	$25	40.00%	Canadian Whisky	4	84,00	Tony	Forty Creek Barrel Select is a blend of various grain whiskies aged in seasoned ex-Bourbon barrels and new American White Oak. Some grain sweetness on the nose, possibly corn or maize, along with some nut and spice. The palate has that sweetness as well, along with some vanilla and spice in a medium finish. At around $25, this is hard to beat for an everyday summer drinker!
75	Bowman	Touriga & Merlot Finish 11YR	$40	50.00%	Bourbon	3	86,00	Tony	The nose is a nice mix of vanilla, dark fruits, and some spice. The fruits push forward as it opens more. Nice balance! The palate is a nice blend of fruit and spice in a medium finish! A very easy drinker, but the finishes really push the boundaries of dominating the bourbon!
76	Angel's Envy	Cellar Collection Tawny Port 2019	$250	55.80%	Bourbon	2	83,00	Tony	10YR Straight Bourbon finished for 10 mos in Tawny Port barrels. The nose is rather mild, with fruits and spice. The palate brings some dark fruit sweetness and oak spices. With a medium finish, and a lackluster nose, I have to consider this overpriced at $250!!
77	1792	225th Anniversary	$35	46.08%	Bourbon	3	85,00	Tony	The nose is a mix of sweetness, fruit, and some spice. The palate delivers on the nose, with less spice, and some oak spice. The finish is medium. Not overly complex for an Anniversary edition, but priced right for what it is!
78	High West	14YR Light Whiskey	$100	46.00%	Light Whiskey	3	91,00	Tony	100 barrels produced from corn between 1999 & 2001, and aged in 2nd fill barrels. The nose is heavy on the vanilla, but there is some underlying sweetness with caramel, and perhaps honey. The palate is more flavorful than I was expecting for a Light Whiskey, with vanilla, chocolate, fruits and honey. An outstanding representative of this category!!!
79	1792	Port Finish	$40	44.45%	Bourbon	4	91,00	Tony
80	1792	High Rye	$36	47.15%	Bourbon	3	84,00	Tony	8+ YR old. Fruit, some spiciness and some oak spice lead off on the nose. While not necessarily a high proof bourbon, there is some ethanol present, and a sweeter nose than I was expecting. Was expecting more spiciness from a high rye, including on the palate, which is also sweeter than I was expecting, with some spiciness mixed with some oak. This did not seem significantly different from the Small Batch to me.
81	Absolut	Citron	$20	40.00%	Vodka	3	88,00	Tony	Absolut Citron has nice lemon and lime notes on the nose, and is balanced with the underlying Vodka. The palate delivers on the nose, and is balanced without tasting any artificial sweetness in a medium finish.
82	Absolut	Mandrin	$20	40.00%	Vodka	4	92,00	Tony
83	1792	Full Proof	$45	62.50%	Bourbon	3	83,00	Tony	8.5YR old per their Press Release. A somewhat mild nose, with your std bourbon notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel. There is some ethanol present as well. Some fruit and sweetness, along with some heat greets the palate, but is overtaken by the alcohol and tannins on the finish.
84	Bowman	Gingerbread Cocoa Finish	$40	45.00%	Bourbon	3	84,00	Tony	The barrels originally held bourbon for 4.5YR, were emptied, and sent to Hardywood Park Brewery and filled with two beers: 6 barrels aged Gingerbread Stout and 4 barrels aged Foolery Imperial Milk Stout. Both beers aged 8 mos, emptied, and filled again with bourbon for 8+ years, and finished for 17 mos in these barrels. Vanilla, ginger & chocolate greet the nose initially, with some spice peeking through. Very complex nose & balanced. The palate is like a bourbon that has been soaked in candy bars, with a medium, but pleasing finish.
85	Jack Daniels	Black No 7	$25	40.00%	Tennessee Whiskey	3	84,00	Tony	Banana, spice, & subtle smokiness on the nose are mixed with some sweet notes. The banana comes forward as it opens more. The palate brings some sweetness, while finishing with oak spiciness. This would benefit from a higher proof.
86	Neeley Family Distillery	Bourbon Ball Cream Xmas Edition Batch 1	$23	17.50%	Liqueur	5	91,00	Tony	Neeley Family Distillery's Bourbon Ball Cream Liqueur was a special Christmas Edition that was only available at the distillery. It starts with a very clean moonshine base, and has natural cream and natural flavors. The nose is as advertised, with bourbon ball chocolate and cream. Truly a bourbon ball in a glass, with some cream, and perhaps a touch of walnut? Once again, this tastes all natural, which separates it from many other cream liqueurs.
87	Neeley Family Distillery	Chocolate Truffle Moonshine Cream Batch 2	$25	17.50%	Liqueur	5	94,00	Tony	Neeley Family Distillery's Chocolate Truffle Moonshine Cream Liqueur starts with a very clean moonshine base, and has natural cream, vanilla, walnut, and chocolate fudge flavoring. A chocolate lover's dream on the nose, with the walnut and vanilla playing second fiddle, but show up more in the taste, along with the fudge. An exceptional, and complex cream liqueur that tastes all natural, which is what you should look for!! Kudos!!
88	Buffalo Trace	Bourbon Cream	$20	15.00%	Liqueur	3	79,00	Tony	Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream starts with a Straight Bourbon Whiskey base, and has caramel coloring added, but not sure why? It's an easy drinker, but not much to it, and doesn't taste all natural to me. It mixes very well with a hard root beer, or in coffee and over ice cream.
89	Jose Cuervo	Gold	$15	40.00%	Tequila	2	60,00	Tony	Jose Cuervo Gold is a Gold Tequila, meaning that it's a blend of Blanco and aged Tequila, probably Reposado based on its price. Gold Tequila is also equivalent to Oro and Joven Tequila. It is not 100% Blue Agave, but must be at least 51% per the NOM Regulations, and the remaining 49% must be other sugars of a non-agave source. These are typically molasses, cane sugar, or corn syrup, and these sugars must be blended together prior to fermentation. Some agave and sugar notes are present on the nose, along with some alcohol. Some form of cane sugar was almost definitely added. Sugary sweetness, black pepper, alcohol, and hardly any agave notes are on the palate.
90	Chateau de Montifaud	Extra	$215	40.00%	Cognac	3	915,00	Tony	Chateau de Montifaud Extra is a blend of 100% Petite Champagne, and yielded only 988 bottles. Lovely fruit and floral notes lead the way, with some spice appearing after a few minutes. Possibly some light rancio as well, indicating some older cognac in the blend. The palate delivers on the nose, with the spice being more predominant in a long finish! Very nice!!
91	Chateau du Breuil	15YR	$95	41.00%	Calvados	3	91,00	Tony
92	La Vallee De La Framboise	Le Brochu Raspberry and Black Currant	$30	23.00%	Liqueur	3	90,00	Tony
93	Ole Smoky	Apple Pie	$20	35.00%	Moonshine	3	77,00	Tony	Ole Smoky Apple Pie Flavored Moonshine has some nice apple and a little spice initially on the nose, but as it opens, the apple pie is more noticeable at the rim of the glass, but with more sweetness than I was expecting. The taste is an apple pie with apple and some baking spices, but with far too much sweetness, and borders heavily on being a liqueur.
94	EH Taylor	Small Batch	$55	50.00%	Bourbon	2	765,00	Tony	EH Taylor Small Batch is rumored to be around 7YR, and once it opens, the nose is lovely with nice fruit notes integrated with the nice oak spice. The palate and taste is overwhelmed with alcohol and oak tannins, and the finish is relatively short except for the tannins.
95	Drop Shop	Orangecello	$30	35.00%	Liqueur	4	100,00	Tony	Lovely fresh orange on the nose, and as it opens, the rim becomes that orange peel! Just lovely orange flavors! The taste and palate are alive with the orange, but also with what I believe to be a Vodka base? Very well-balanced, with no artificial tasting flavors or sweetness, and in a lengthy finish! Outstanding, and at a great proof!
96	West Fork Whiskey	Old Hamer 80 Proof	$30	40.00%	Bourbon	3	785,00	Tony
97	Spirits of French Lick	Mattie Gladded 4YR BIB	$45	50.00%	Bourbon	5	92,00	Tony
98	The Botanist	The Botanist	$40	46.00%	Gin	3	945,00	Tony
99	Audry	Reserve Speciale	$111	40.00%	Cognac	3	88,00	Tony
100	Asbach	Freieitsbrand 1989 25YR	$275	41.00%	Brandy	3	94,00	Tony
101	Stagg Jr	2020 Batch 13	$50	64.20%	Bourbon	3	81,00	Tony
102	Fireball	Fireball	$14	33.00%	Flavored Whiskey	2	665,00	Tony
103	GlenDronach	18YR	$160	46.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	935,00	Tony	This bottling of GlenDronach 18YR was from some of the last batches that had 20+ YR old juice in it. The nose leads off with big fruit, raisins, dried fruit, and some chocolate. As it opens more, some nut appears in just a lovely nose! The palate brings fruit, some wood and spices, and cinnamon is present in a long finish! This expression is a significant improvement over some that I had over 10 years ago! An exemplary 18YR sherried Scotch!
104	Ardbeg	Grooves	$135	51.60%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	91,00	Tony
105	Weller	Full Proof	$50	57.00%	Bourbon	3	82,00	Tony
106	Panama-Pacific	9YR	$30	47.30%	Rum	4	92,00	Tony	Panama-Pacific uses yeasts extracted from pineapples to ferment the sugars into a low-alcohol mash which will then be strengthened through distillation using a historic Coffey still. Tropical fruit, vanilla and molasses are all present on the nose. The palate is robust with vanilla, molasses, butterscotch, and some light oak and spice. This is a well-balanced rum, with a long and warming finish. This is a rich, but not overly sweet rum, and at a higher abv than most.
107	Machetazo	Espadin	$42	45.00%	Mezcal	3	93,00	Tony	Machetazo Espadin Mezcal is produced from 100% Espadin Agave. Floral and spicy notes on the nose initially, with some subtle smoke at the rim of the glass. As it opens more, the smoke becomes more apparent, but everything is nicely balanced. Spice, agave, and smoke are all nicely balanced on the palate as well, and in a long and powerful finish, as you would expect. This is a very nice Mezcal, where none of the flavors try to dominate.
108	Hoku	Sakura Shochu	$35	22.00%	Shochu	4	95,00	Tony	Shochu is typically a Japanese distilled beverage primarily produced from, but not limited to, rice, barley, or sweet potatoes. Hoku Sakura Shochu, an American Cherry Shochu by Royal Hawaii Spirits, is distilled from grain, and infused with Cherry flavor. A cherry blossom is a flower of many trees of genus Prunus. The most well-known species is the Japanese cherry, Prunus serrulata, which is commonly called sakura. Dark cherry initially on the nose, especially at the rim, with a little spice as it opens. A lovely balance of the base spirit and cherry, without any sweetness on the palate, and delivers a long finish! An outstanding American Shochu!
109	West Fork Whiskey	Old Hamer Small Batch Cask Strength	$40	57.50%	Bourbon	3	74,00	Tony	Distilled, aged, and bottled by MGP from a mash bill of 99% Corn, 1% Malted Barley, and aged for 3+ YR. Corn and ethanol dominate the nose early. Any secondary flavors are fighting the ethanol, even as it opens more. The taste follows the nose, with little to no complexity, a little heat, and perhaps some oak spice. This is why there are secondary, or flavor grains in bourbon, and that there is a category for Corn Whiskey
110	Chateau des Plassons	Napoleon	$115	40.00%	Cognac	3	90,00	Tony	Chateau des Plassons Napoleon is produced from 100% Bons Bois, and is 15+ YR old. Some vanilla and gentle spice open on the nose, with some pear and light oak following. The palate brings some lovely spices, including cinnamon, and some floral notes, predominately violet, and with a long finish. Another lovely Bons Bois Cognac
111	Baron de Lustrac	1980, 30YR, Bas Armagnac	$120	42.00%	Armagnac	4	915,00	Tony	Baron de Lustrac is a Merchant, or Broker, and this 1980, 30YR Bas Armagnac was distilled at Domaine Croix de Pelanne from 100% Baco Blanc. Lovely dried and burnt fruits lead off the nose, with some fig appearing as it opens. Deep, dark fruit and some oak spice on the palate in a very long finish. The tannins from this bold Armagnac gives your mouth a little pucker. Very nice indeed!
112	Ardbeg	Auriverdes	$100	49.90%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	85,00	Tony
113	Plantation	5YR Barbados	$25	40.00%	Rum	5	895,00	Tony	Sweet caramel molasses initially on the nose, followed by some light oak and spice. The caramel/molasses intensifies as it opens, and some baking spices appear. Butterscotch, caramel and the molasses dance on the palate, along with some of those baking spices. Some fruit is also present, presumably from the cognac cask finish. This is a fantastic rum for this age, and a steal for about $25!!
114	Sazerac	18YR 2013	$70	45.00%	Rye	5	97,00	Tony	There is surprisingly nice spice at this age still on the nose, although tamed, but very well-balanced with vanilla and some caramel as well. Everything is excellently balanced on the palate, with the oak and wood being reigned in, and with a lengthy finish. An outstanding well-aged rye, and a benchmark!!!
115	Glenfarclas	17YR	$100	43.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	4	91,00	Tony	Glenfarclas is a family owned distillery, and this 17YR was aged entirely in Oloroso Sherry casks. Lovely rich dried fruits on the nose, with a little vanilla and maltiness mixed in. It is such an inviting nose!! The palate is just mouth coating with that dried fruit, and enough oak spice to really balance it all out in a long finish! To me, the 17YR displays the perfect balance between old and young Glenfarclas.
116	Caribou Crossing	Single Barrel	$50	40.00%	Canadian Whisky	3	91,00	Tony
117	High West	A Midwinter Night's Dram Act 2-3	$80	49.30%	Rye	4	96,00	Tony	This is the Rendezvous Rye finished in French and Port barrels. The nose is a whirlwind of gentle smoke, spices, and sweet fruits that just keep dancing; very complex and balanced. Red fruits hit the palate initially, and it finishes long with that rye spiciness. Just outstanding!! Both finishes show up, with everything very well balanced!!
118	Neeley Family Distillery	Cinnamon Flavored Whiskey	$25	35.60%	Flavored Whiskey	4	94,00	Tony	The nose is a fresh burst of a few cinnamon flavors, without any hints of excessive sweetness. Think Big Red chewing gum crossed with an Atomic Fire Ball. The body and mouth feel is not thick with overpowering sugars, while the palate is alive with those same cinnamon flavors, and the finish is long with cinnamon spice. Flavored Whiskey the way it should be made!! Kudos
119	Dupont	1977 38YR Pays D'Auge	$165	42.00%	Calvados	4	92,00	Tony
120	Chateau de Leberon	1988 30YR Tenareze	$190	44.90%	Armagnac	4	89,00	Tony	Chateau de Leberon only produces 3 or 4 casks of Armagnac per year, and this 1988 30YR from the Tenareze Appellation is a Single Cask chosen by the Beast Masters Club. This was produced from 65% Ugni Blanc and 35% Columbard, which is an unusually high percentage of Columbard, and bottled unfiltered at cask strength with no coloring or additives. The nose gives off some floral/perfume notes, followed by an abundance of fig, fruit, and nut as it opens. A real heavenly nose and bouquet!! Dark fruit, perhaps raisin, oak and spice dominate the palate in a lengthy finish. Too much oak and spice on the palate prevented this from being stellar!!
121	Balvenie	14YR Caribbean Rum Cask	$60	43.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	89,00	Tony	A rich, sweet nose, with typical Balvenie honey, some toffee, fruits, and a touch of spice. The palate is creamy with fruit, vanilla and honey, in a long and balanced finish. A well-balanced and complex whiskey that is priced well.
122	Black Bottle	10YR	$40	43.00%	Scotch - Blended Malt	4	85,00	Tony	A limited Edition blend of 10YR Islay Single Malts, and the nose is distinctly Islay, with that classic smoke, but also has an underlying honey sweetness, along with some oak and spice as it opens more. The palate delivers some maltiness/bread or biscuits, fruit, and lingering smokiness in a long finish. A well made blend, that offers more than just Islay smoke, and at a great price!
123	Glenlivet	1969 38YR Cellar Collection	$750	50.70%	Scotch - Single Malt	4	97,00	Tony	Selected from the best casks from 1969, only 800 bottles came to the US, and was bottled at Cask Strength. A very complex whiskey with some caramel, vanilla, fruits, nut, malt, and an array of baking spices. At 38YR, it shows no signs of being tired, and has a lengthy finish. This truly showcases an extra matured Glenlivet! Outstanding!
124	Parker's Heritage	5th Edition 10YR Cognac Finish	$80	50.00%	Bourbon	3	93,00	Tony	Finished for several months in Cognac casks, the nose is heavenly and complex, with dark fruits, caramel and maple syrup, some vanilla, and floral notes. The Cognac finish is evident, but not over the top. Some oak appears as it opens more, with everything very well balanced. The finish is all bourbon with some spices and vanilla, but a little richer. For me personally, the nose was the star of the show!
125	Old Forester	86 Proof	$23	43.00%	Bourbon	4	81,00	Tony	Produced from a traditional bourbon mashbill of 72/18/10 (Corn/Rye/Malted Barley). And a traditional bourbon, with caramel, vanilla, and some baking spices. A bargain bourbon that is great in cocktails!!
126	Prunier	1969 49YR	$478	54.50%	Cognac	4	96,00	Tony	A single cask produced from 100% Grande Champagne, is 49YR, and yielded approximately 500 bottles at cask strength. A robust nose of rancio initially, followed by some licorice, chocolate, and some nut flavors as it opens. A lovely nose that is both powerful and elegant. The palate is rich with orange peel and some spices in a long and powerful finish. An outstanding vintage cognac.
127	Dictador	12YR	$42	40.00%	Rum	4	91,00	Tony
128	George Remus	Remus Repeal Reserve Series III	$80	50.00%	Bourbon	3	87,00	Tony
129	Connemara	Original	$50	40.00%	Irish - Single Malt	3	87,00	Tony	Connemara is one of the few peated Irish whiskies that is readily available, and is produced by the Cooley distillery. Gentle peat, with some apple and cinnamon on the nose. Honey, apple, fruits, and peat smoke dance on the palate in a lengthy finish. Not as intense as some Scottish peated malts, but quite enjoyable!
130	GlenDronach	15YR Revival Pre 2015	$95	46.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	4	92,00	Tony	The Pre 2015 Revival was aged entirely in Oloroso Sherry butts, unlike the new Revival brought back in 2018 that is aged in Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez casks. Distinctly sherry on the nose with chocolate, nut, dark fruits and raisin. Very complex and well balanced. A dry, rich sherry influenced palate with similar flavors as the nose, with some spice and a whiff of smoke in a long finish.
131	GlenDronach	33YR	$400	40.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	4	96,00	Tony	This was aged entirely in Oloroso Sherry butts. Really rich and lush fruits, nuts, nice spices, and a whiff of smoke are all present throughout. This is very well-structured, mature, and balanced from start to finish, and is not at all tired or past its prime at this age. A little higher proof, and this is perfect, or damn close!
132	F Meyer	Kirsch	$35	45.00%	Eau-de-vie	3	95,00	Tony	F Meyer is located in the Alsace region of France, and this Kirsch was produced from Alsatian cherries and was double pot distilled. Lovely cherry and almond notes on a very clean nose. A very clean palate as well with the same cherry and almond, with some acidity, and no off notes or flavors. Bottled a nice proof, this is how Kirsch should be!
133	Diplomatico	Vintage 2000	$90	43.00%	Rum	4	100,00	Tony	Aged for 10YR in ex-Bourbon casks and then finished for 2YR in Pedro Ximenez casks. Rich dark fruits and baking spices fill the nose initially, with undertones of oak spice and butterscotch. As it opens more, those dry, sherry influenced fruits really reveal the raisin and dates. Toffee, baking spices, and dry fruits are all well-balanced on the palate, with some gentle oak spice in a long, bittersweet and dry finish. A very complex and exemplary rum. Hope we see more of these Vintage rums!
134	Ararat	5 Stars	$30	40.00%	Brandy	3	84,00	Tony
135	King's Family Distillery	Ryeconic	$75	55.00%	Rye	3	88,00	Tony	Ryeconic is a 95% Rye that was finished for 1YR in a 30 gallon barrel with grooved staves, and yielded 120 bottles. It is 4+YR old. A very lovely and well-balanced nose, and may remind some of an MGP style 95% Rye. Nice rye spice and baking spices. The palate was a slight let down with a little heat and some oak spice added. I would like to have tried this without the finish.
136	Sophie & Max		$177	40.00%	Cognac	4	95,00	Tony	A blend of Petite Champagne Vintages from 1975, 1982 and 1989. Lovely fruit notes on the nose, with perhaps some chocolate notes appearing as it opens more. Very gentle, complex, and elegant. The palate is also very elegant, with fruits and spices in a dry, and lengthy finish. Very lovely and well balanced. The glass beckons you to keep refilling it!!
137	Camut	Reserve d'Adrien	$264	41.00%	Calvados	4	95,00	Tony
138	Wheatley	Vodka	$23	41.00%	Vodka	3	87,00	Tony
139	Craigellachie	13YR	$50	46.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	4	91,00	Tony	Big floral and fruit notes greet the nose, including some banana. The palate is big and mouth-coating with fruit, a real throwback Speyside. The finish is long and with a hint of spice. Classic Speyside!!!
140	Ole Smoky	Salty Caramel	$20	30.00%	Flavored Whiskey	1	40,00	Tony
141	Falls Church Distillers	Apple Brandy	$50	46.00%	Brandy	2	76,00	Tony	Maryland apple cider distilled 8 times and steam infused with Granny Smith's. Then they vibrate the distillate with live music while aging it in a Virginia red wine barrel for 365 days. The apple struggles against the wine cask initially, which dominates at the rim of the glass. As it opens more, the green apple is able to show itself. The palate and finish are once again dominated by the wine cask, with hints of apple here and there. I would like to see this in a regular used barrel with normal aging.
142	L'Encantada	1988, 29YR, SB Bas Armagnac	$155	52.00%	Armagnac	4	92,00	Tony	Cask 22. Rich, dark fruits greet the nose, with some tobacco and leather as it opens more. A really lovely and inviting nose! Dark fruits, spices, and more oak than usual dance across the palate with a lengthy finish. A lovely, well balanced Armagnac, and one that would appeal to those who enjoy older Bourbons.
143	Jack Daniels	Fire	$20	35.00%	Liqueur	3	71,00	Tony
144	Normandin Mercier	La Peraudiere 5th Edition	$200	47.20%	Cognac	3	88,00	Tony	1000 Bottles, Grande Champagne. Lovely fruits greet the nose. The palate delivers some surprising smokiness, along with those fruits and some oak notes. The finish is elegant and long
145	Busnel	VSOP	$45	40.00%	Calvados	3	87,00	Tony	Produced from 20 varietals of apples, and aged a minimum 4YR. Fresh, crisp apple greets the nose. As it opens, some nice spice joins in, along with some subtle floral notes. The palate is a creamy apple with some gentle oak spice on the finish. A great summer Calvados!
146	Yellow Spot	12YR	$95	46.00%	Irish - Pot Still	3	88,00	Tony	Triple Pot Distilled, and aged in bourbon, sherry, & Malaga Casks. Malaga is a sweet, Spanish fortified wine. A complex nose with red fruits, baking spices, some honey, and pepper. The palate starts sweet, but finishes with a dominant clove and spice on the finish. For me, the nose was the star of the show!
147	Weller	Special Reserve	$25	45.00%	Bourbon	3	82,00	Tony	Sweet on the nose, as one would expect from a wheated bourbon, with caramel, vanilla, along with some honey mixed in. Not very intense, and a somewhat delicate nose. The palate retains that sweetness, with some mild oak on the finish. Not very complex, and an easy sipper for sure.
148	Baileys	Strawberries & Cream	$25	17.00%	Liqueur	3	91,00	Tony
149	EH Taylor	Straight Rye	$75	50.00%	Rye	2	86,00	Tony	Produced from Rye and Barley, this is a High Rye mashbill. Surprisingly, oak is one of the initial notes leading off, followed by your typical baking spices, but there is also some subtle mint joining in. A really nice nose. The palate is all rye, with ground pepper, baking spices, and some oak balances it out in a medium to long finish.
150	Hennessy	VSOP Privilege	$65	40.00%	Cognac	3	87,00	Tony
151	Old Home Distillers	Gin	$28	45.00%	Gin	3	86,00	Tony	Strong juniper hits the nose initially, but not in an offensive way. As it opens, some mild pepper and subtle citrus appear. The palate and finish are balanced with pepper and the juniper. A little bold neat, but can be enjoyed, and especially in a cocktail.
152	Kessler	Blended Whiskey	$9	40.00%	Blended Whiskey	3	36,00	Tony
153	Andre Petit		$417	40.00%	Cognac	3	90,00	Tony
154	Duckworth	Grapefruit & Mango	$28	41.00%	Vodka	3	95,00	Tony	Made from 100% Cane Sugar Vodka. Nice grapefruit and subtle mango initially on the nose, with fresh grapefruit at the rim. As it opens more, the mango really shows itself. A lovely nose for a flavored vodka. The palate is a nice balance of the flavors, with the vodka base still present. The flavors taste real, and without any artificial sweetener. There is enough flavor to enjoy neat, but not so overpowering to use in a cocktail. Very well made!
155	Crown Royal	Peach	$23	35.00%	Canadian Whisky	3	57,00	Tony	Sweet peach nectar flows out of the glass, with an emphasis on sweet. The flavor is actually appealing, but the sweetness overshadows any traces of whisky. The palate is a thick, syrupy, sweet peach, with some subtle whisky notes that linger in the finish. Like so many flavored whiskies, this is over the top sweet.
156	Di Amore	Limoncello	$13	28.00%	Liqueur	3	86,00	Tony
157	Drop Shop	Bailey's Gin		45.00%	Gin	4	91,00	Tony	Produced from 100% Grain Neutral Spirit. A clean nose, with floral and citrus notes. As it opens, the citrus becomes more dominant. Citrus on the palate, with the floral in the background. Very well balanced with a long finish.
158	Vaudon	XO	$84	40.00%	Cognac	5	86,00	Tony
159	Paul John	Oloroso Select Cask	$85	48.00%	Indian Whisky	3	86,00	Tony	Aged for 3YR in ex-bourbon cask, then finished for 4YR in Oloroso sherry casks. The nose is really big and rich with fruit initially. As it opens more, some honey appears, followed by fig and apricot. The malt shows itself early in the palate, and then yields to the rich and fruity sherry. It finishes long, and with some spices at the end. Given its color, I may have believed that this was aged in Oloroso and not just finished. I really enjoyed this, but the sherry pushes the envelope.
160	Glenmorangie	Nectar d'Or 12YR	$80	46.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	89,00	Tony	Aged for 10YR in ex-bourbon cask, then finished for 2YR in Sauterne casks. Sweet honey and apricots greet the nose initially, with the honey taking over as it opens more, and some nut appears. The palate is oily with honey, malty grains, and some fruit notes, before finishing with some light pepper and oak spices. I have always enjoyed this one.
161	Royal Canadian	Small Batch	$13	40.00%	Canadian Whisky	3	79,00	Tony
162	Don Luchesi	O'Gin London Dry		43.00%	Gin	4	100,00	Tony	Don Luchesi O'Gin London Dry is produced in Brazil from 10 botanicals. The nose is very crisp and clean with very well balanced juniper and citrus. The palate also delivers subtle herbal and spice notes in a lengthy finish. The poster child for a London Dry Gin!! I could not find a flaw, and is well worth grabbing if you ever see it.
163	Miel Nature	Moonlight Honey		40.00%	Eau-de-vie	4	94,00	Tony	A very clean nose with fresh, but not overpowering honey. The palate delivers the same, and is well balanced with a probable grain neutral base. The finish is very long, and this is a very well made eau-de-vie!!
164	Cowboy Country Distilling	Straight Bourbon		53.00%	Bourbon	3	70,00	Tony	2YR old, and comes across as a little youthful. Corn heavy on the nose, with perhaps some subtle chocolate, and some caramel. This really just needs more time in the barrel, and is average for its age. There were a bit of tannins on the finish until it really opened up more.
165	Buffalo Trace	Buffalo Trace	$25	45.00%	Bourbon	3	71,00	Tony	Vanilla, leather, and some mild spice lead off the nose. As it opens, a light toffee like note appears, along with some oak. The palate starts sweet, and finishes dry, but rather short, with persistent tannins. A solid every day drinker.
166	Godet	15YR Fins Bois	$155	40.00%	Cognac	2	86,00	Tony	An unusual fruit note on the nose, almost like the grape must, or the pressed grapes. As it opens more, a little minerality appears. I have not nosed this before in a Cognac, and find it very interesting. This holds true on the palate as well, along with perhaps some rancio? The finish is velvety, and lengthy. Not the most complex Cognac, but very different, and quite enjoyable nonetheless!
167	Jose Cuervo	Reserva de la Familia Extra Anejo	$160	40.00%	Tequila	3	91,00	Tony	Caramel, vanilla, and subtle cooked agave lead off on the nose. As it opens more, the agave comes forward a little more, along with some light oak. Oak, fruits, and that same cooked agave are all intertwined on the palate, and in a lengthy finish.
168	Paul Giraud	Tres Rare 40YR	$188	40.00%	Cognac	5	96,00	Tony	Paul Giraud Tres Rare 40YR is produced from 100% Grande Champagne. Lovely fruit and spice greet the nose, with some subtle tobacco trying to fight through. As it opens more, elegant fruit moves to the front. The palate is velvety with fruit and spice, before finishing with spice and some oak spice. The nose. Taste, and finish are all very well balanced and harmonious! Outstanding!!
169	Starward	Nova	$55	41.00%	Australian Whisky	3	88,00	Tony	Starward Nova was aged entirely in Australian wine barrels. Lovely apple and berry fruits lead off the nose, with an underlying malty aroma in the background. As it opens more, a custard appears, along with some subtle chocolate. The palate is alive with sweet fruits, before finishing dry with some mild tannins and some spices. Very nice!
170	Francois Voyer	Extra, Limited Christmas Edition	$219	43.00%	Cognac	4	91,00	Tony	A limited edition of 100 bottles exclusively for Cognac Expert, and produced from Grande Champagne. Really lovely fruit notes greet the nose initially. As it opens, some leather and subtle spice appear, with everything being very well balanced. The palate delivers fruit, spice, and some mild oak and tannins in a lengthy finish! Very nice and well balanced!
171	Marancheville	10YR	$86	40.00%	Cognac	3	73,00	Tony	Produced from 100% Grande Champagne. Sweet fruit on the nose initially, along with some subtle spice. Not a very complex nose, but is yet appealing. The palate starts sweet, before finishing with oak spice in a dry, lingering finish. A nice intro into XO Cognacs, but with more oak on the finish than is normal.
172	Park	XO	$124	40.00%	Cognac	3	83,00	Tony
173	Andre Petit		$200	44.30%	Cognac	4	92,00	Tony	Produced from 100% Bons Bois, and from the 1983, 1985, 1988, and 1993 Vintages. Lovely fruit, including apricot and plum, greet the nose. Hints of leather and oak appear as it opens more. A really incredible nose that beckons you to it. The higher abv becomes apparent on the palate, which delivers some vanilla, hints of leather, and perhaps coffee bean? The finish is long, and this is a lovely aged, and bold Bons Bois!
174	Ron Millonario	XO	$95	40.00%	Rum	2	85,00	Tony
175	Giboin	XO	$108	40.00%	Cognac	4	84,00	Tony	Lovely fruit and flower/floral notes initially on the nose, and very indicative of a Borderies. As it opens more, subtle nut and spice notes appear. A lovely and well balanced nose! The palate delivers nutty almond, along with some baking spices. Some oak spice rounds everything out in a lengthy finish. A solid gateway to well-aged Borderies!!
176	Smokehead	Smokehead	$50	43.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	2	78,00	Tony	Smokehead comes from Ian Macleod distillers, who owns the Glengoyne and Tamdhu distilleries, along with brands, such as Isle of Sky and Smokehead. A young and fiery Islay, with toffee, ash, and peat smoke immediately on the nose, with some underlying honeyed malt as it opens more. The palate is greeted with that same malted honey, before finishing with peat smoke. A nice gateway to peated scotches, but also a little pricey.
177	Mauxion	Lot 49 Fins Bois	$688	45.00%	Cognac	3	97,00	Tony
178	Balvenie	17YR Madeira Cask	$120	43.00%	Scotch - Single Malt	3	91,00	Tony	Released in 2009, Fruit, caramel, vanilla, honey, and subtle baking spices dance on a lovely, complex, and well balanced nose! Fruit and honey greet the palate, before a lengthy, drier, and spicy finish. Very well balanced, and finished!!
179	Balcones	True Blue Cask Strength Single Barrel Straight Corn Whiskey	$65	65.80%	Corn Whiskey	2	625,00	Tony
180	Buffalo Trace	White Dog Mash #1	$35	62.50%	White Dog	2	77,00	Tony
181	Giboin	L'Essentiel	$125	46.50%	Cognac	3	89,00	Tony
182	Kavalan	Oloroso Sherry Cask	$100	46.00%	Taiwan Whisky	3	88,00	Tony	The sherry influence dominates the nose initially with rich, dark fruits; plum, prune, and perhaps some raisin as well. A little reminiscent of a Spanish brandy. Subtle, sweet malty notes appear as it opens more. Sweet fruit on the palate is offset by some nice spices in a long finish!
183	Metaxa	Angels' Treasure	$120	41.00%	Brandy	5	96,00	Tony	A blend of Muscat wine and grape spirit aged 50+ years in French oak. Lovely orange and apricot fruit on the nose, with subtle, sweet spices also present. As it opens more, toffee notes appear at the rim. The Muscat reveals itself after another 5 minutes. A really well balanced nose and aromas!! The palate starts with sweet fruit, before finishing dry with light spice and oak!! Superb!!
184	Jacques Petit	Populaire	$39	40.00%	Liqueur	5	97,00	Tony	Fine Cognac that is aged for over 3 years in oak barrels and then infused with buttery Popcorn. This is rich, buttery, salty caramel movie theater popcorn in a glass!! A big and rich nose unlike any other, and seems to draw you into it!! As it opens more, there are times when I can detect the cognac at the rim of the glass. The palate is big and rich as well, but not overly sweet, and the long finish is a little dry and salty. An exemplary liqueur, and how one should be made!!
185	Little Water Distillery	48 Blocks Chocolate Martini	$35	30.00%	RTD	3	93,00	Tony

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