Spirit Reviews

95

Chicken Cock Whiskey Red Stave ($200)

This is a wildly intense Kentucky bourbon aged in J. Wilkes Petite Sirah barrels from California. It offers elements of both the whiskey and the wine, with hints of cherry, plum and toasted oak. The texture is long and supple, leading to a memorably strong finish of vanilla and baking spice.

93

Daviess County Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in Medium Toasted American Oak Barrels ($49)

This is a rye and wheated bourbon aged four-plus years in charred-oak barrels that is then finished in medium-toasted American oak barrels. Well-made, complete and intensely flavored, it offers notes of corn, vanilla and roasted nuts alongside well-integrated hints of honey and coconut.

95

Emyla Tequila Anejo ($130)

This Tequila is produced using natural spring water and aged in American oak, the mature agave sourced from both the Highlands and Lowlands of the region for better crop regeneration. This is an ultra-premium product that tastes accordingly, offering aromas and flavors of caramel, corn, jalapeno and white pepper, with a smooth, sweet and lengthy finish.

94

Four Corners American Gin ($40)

One impressive nose! The perfume ranges from exotic floral tones of lavender and gardenia to citrus tones of vanilla-kissed lime and sugared tangerine. A prickly pinch of white pepper zings on first sip. Underlying notes of sage, coconut cream, and white flowers abound. Only botanicals found in the U.S. are used to craft this “made from America” spirit.

92

Good Money 5-Year-Old Canadian Rye Whisky, Canada ($30)

Sweet corn kernel, vanilla, and caramel mingle on the nose with candied citrus peel, a dash of black pepper, and a wisp of smoke en route to a palate that’s light and soft, with hints of stone fruit, coconut, and baking spice preceding a bright raisin finish. Highly approachable and easy-drinking.

97

Hemingway Rye Signature Edition, 102 proof ($80)

A blend of straight rye whiskeys finished in rum-seasoned Oloroso Sherry Casks, with a perfume of orange blossom and sassafras. Cinnamon stick and brown-sugared ginger sweeten the palate. A dot of clove interplays with the honeyed profile. Caramel-covered chocolate initiates at mid-point, with roasted hazelnut, while orange peel and a smattering of oak take it to the finish line.

95

High West Campfire Whiskey ($80)

Exuberant aromas of butterscotch, almond, and peach pie start the sequence of nuances for this blend of straight rye, straight bourbon, and blended malt Scotch whisky. Peaty notes greet the senses first, warm and inviting. Marzipan, oatmeal, apricot cobbler, and mango are wrapped in cigar leaf. The finish of toasted graham cracker and dark chocolate are heady and sensuous.

98

Lazy K Bar Bourbon, 92 proof ($100)

Crafted in Montana, this 8-year-old bourbon mixes in some nine and 10-year-old stock. The peach nectar on the nose is a siren luring you in for its captivating flavors of sweet oak, honey, and a lather of new leather and pecan nougat. It possesses a succulent aftertaste of strength and luxury.