GUINIGI

Spirit Reviews

92

The Muff Liquor Company Irish Whiskey ($35)

This peat-smoked, triple-distilled whiskey brings together five different Irish malt and grain whiskeys. The combination of ex-Bourbon and -Sherry casks, virgin oak, and peat result in a complex and gulpable dram. It’s lovely on its own or as the base of a subtly smoky Old Fashioned.

96

Uncle Val’s Handcrafted Botanical Gin, USA 90 proof ($39)

Orange bitters, lime zest, and lavender perfume the glass. Silky on the palate with a gentle nip of white pepper, jasmine, and glistening raspberry. Powdered vanilla lengthens on the luxurious finish.

96

Bomberger’s 2024 Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon, USA ($120)

is also part of the Legacy Series. The use of Chinquapin oak brings our dark chocolate on nose and palate. Additional aromas of campfire and graham cracker are warming and distinct. The liquid is exciting and winsome, with apricot, orange peel, and cigar leaf, amped by an underlying toffee nougat. Rugged notes of black-peppered tree bark, stewed fruits, and a long, spicy finish are impressively sensual. 108 proof.

90

Bushel Gin ($15)

With an opening force of lemon, grapefruit peel, licorice and juniper berry, this gin is made from organic certified non-GMO corn and seven-times distilled. Simple and subtle, it is crisp, refreshing and well-made, offering a nice price point.

88

Bushel Vodka ($15)

Made from organic corn grown in Missouri and seven-times distilled, this vodka is lightly aromatic with a mild entry. The midpalate packs a punch in jolts of salty wet stone and fiery jalapeno.

96

Bushwood Long Ball Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon 121 Proof ($100)

Dark golden in color, this is a deeply complex, lengthy and savory single barrel straight Kentucky bourbon, aged seven years in heavy char new oak. Corn, rye and malted barley figure into the mash bill, offering a refined palate of butterscotch, honey and toasted oak. 121 Proof.

95

Bushwood Long Ball, Straight Kentucky Bourbon, Bottled in Bond ($80)

Powerfully intense, refined and substantial on the palate, this bourbon is spiced, peppery and full of verve, with a salty finish.

95

Bushwood Stillwater Single Barrel Rye Whiskey ($70)

Billed as a bourbon-lovers’ rye, this is made from 51% rye, 45% corn and 4% malted barley, aged seven years in medium char new oak barrels. Demure and well-integrated, it has a hint of vanilla that builds into more nuanced flavors of white pepper, candied citrus and oak.