This one is probably an easily overlooked label on most shelves. It caught my eye one day gathering dust and I figured it would be worth a try, given all the great whiskey coming out of the Beam distillery. The review was requested by Matt (@WhiskyGnome) who is a great supporter of the Spirit Animal Society!
If you have any review requests make sure to drop me a comment. Let's get into this Beam!
Company on Label: James B Beam Distilling Co
Whiskey Type: Bourbon
Mash Bill Percentages: 77% Corn, 13% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Proof: 86°
Age: 4 years
Further identification: This bottle is listed as a limited edition tribute to the 85th anniversary of prohibition's repeal which by the math would make this a 2018 release; NCF
Nose: Floral and nutty on first raising the well-rested glass to my nose. Oily oak characteristic that immediately opens into a strong dried corn scent. Smoky and earthy smells that remind me of Summer cookouts. The left nostril is very light & tame, while the right nostril builds in a ton more of the smokiness. There's a cleanliness to the nose that reminds me of a floral candle burning on a warm night (which is not tonight, so the imagery is a bit surprising). Hints of bright copper metallics lead into dry chestnuts and bright cotton aromas before a sip. Afterwards a bit of oily coffee bean forms in the glass. Caramel gets a hint of chocolate complimenting it well. The empty glass is loaded with peanut oil and pungent, earthy honey.
Palate: A distinct nuttiness on my first taste that comes across incredibly light with an oily mouth feel. Faint creamy caramel builds on a subsequent sip along with peanut brittle, cornbread, and honey. Very refreshing pour with nothing dark or heavy coming through at all. A small pool of cherry juice is forming over several sips with sprinkles of cinnamon mixed throughout. I think this pour dramatically benefits from the non-chill filter treatment, leaving a lot of thicker natural oils to coat the palate. My last sip is a nice rich coating of chocolate, toffee and silky honey.
Rating: 3/5
This one definitely struggles to wow at its proof point, but I can tell the whiskey is still good. Matt might have described it better than me as "Old Tub Light"! If you are looking to introduce someone to the world of bourbon this might be a nice introduction for someone scared of upping their proof.
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