NEW Blood Oath Pact VIII, Kentucky Bourbon, 49.3 abv                                                       39

Liquid butterscotch, ripe pear, milk chocolate, rich oak, buttery cinnamon pie crust, vanilla whip cream

291 Colorado Single Barrel Bourbon, Kentucky, 50 abv

25

A surprising fruity note strikes first on the nose, with pears and baked apples, followed by cocoa powder, vanilla bean, and baking spices. The palate is quite rich as it begins, shifting to tannic wood, with cinnamon, vanilla, spearmint, and dark chocolate. An extended finish offers char, molasses, and allspice.

NEW Baker’s Straight Single Barrel, Kentucky, 53.5

18

Like standing next to a kettle corn stand; caramel corn and peanuts. Syrupy thick mouthfeel, rich in caramel with an accompanying heat from the proof, rye spice and green peppercorns fade to lightly oaky vanilla.

Balcones Rum Cask Finish Single Malt, Texas, 62 abv

24

Rum notes jump out immediately with exotic fruits, vanilla cream, and coffee cake. The flavor profile compliments these aromas with fresh herbs, dried berries, gingerbread, and sugarcane. Has a lovely and lively finish.

STAFF PICK Balcones Texas Single Malt, Texas, 53 abv

18

Big, bold wood influence with caramel, dried fruits, ripe golden fruits, cashew nuts, and sweet spice.

Barrell Armida, Indiana, 56.4 abv

27

This whisky takes a surprising and dramatic swing from sweet to dry. Pear and pear blossoms with vanilla greet the nose and palate. A big pop of Bartlett pear accompanied by light anise, burnt sugar or molasses, with tobacco and oak dominating the finish.

Barrell Dovetail, Indiana, 61.4 abv

27

Molasses translates beautifully to the palate, followed by notes of cane sugar, dark cherries, and a hint of barrel char. Finished in Cabernet, Rum, and Port casks.

Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke, Kentucky, 40 abv

14

Maple and hickory jump from the glass with a touch rye spice. Sipping reveals a straightforward dose of vanilla, oak, and light smoke.

Basil Hayden Toasted Barrel finished, Kentucky, 40 abv

16

Smells of light brown sugar, caramel toffee, buttered toast, a touch of cinnamon, and light smoke. Palate full of toffee, butterscotch, sweet bread, and a bit of almond. Notes of mild cinnamon, hazelnut, and leather finish.

Basil Hayden 10yr, Kentucky, 40 abv

18

Thick syrupy molasses and cola waft from the glass before buttered toast and black tea enter the playing field. A thin body and quick finish leaves hints of caramel and cloves. An easy sipper.

WHISKEY ADVOCATE TOP WHISKIES OF 2021 Bib & Tucker 6 yr., Kentucky, 46 abv

14

Caramelized fruit and nutty brown bread, with a good kick of baking spice.

Black Button Single Barrel Apple Brandy Finish, New York, 59.9 abv

50

Saccharine forest notes, like candied pine needles, licorice, and malt. Sweet honey and toffee on the front of the palate fades to lingering spiced apple pie and sun-cured oak.

Blade & Bow, Kentucky, 45.5 abv

14

A fairly sweet bourbon with vanilla fudge and coconut macaroon, before a surprising secondary note of cinnamon and baking spices rushes in. As it recedes, flavors of oak, toasted almonds, apricot preserves, peppermint and milk chocolate appear.

Blanton Single Barrel, Kentucky, 45 abv

18

Citrus balanced with vanilla and caramel and some very light floral notes.

Booker's 2021-02 “Tagalong Batch”, Kentucky, 64 abv

21

Dark and earthy, like old wood and loam with notes of black cherry. Smooth rich caramel and vanilla swirl around more fresh cherry and a pleasant cleansing burn from the high abv.

Booker’s 2021-04 “Noe Strangers Batch”, Kentucky, 62.2 abv

21

Caramel laced oak,  dried fruit, earthy spice, vanilla, and toasted peanuts. Bold, but well balanced with a lasting herbal finish.

NEW Booker’s 2022-02 “The Lumberyard Batch”, Kentucky, 62.4 abv

21

Cedar, cinnamon, leather, brown sugar, pecan pie, hints of pear and caramel with an enjoyable intensity.

Buffalo Trace, Kentucky, 40 abv

9

Brown sugar, toffee apple, sweet oak, custard, oily espresso beans, a touch of chocolate-covered raisins and toasty wood.

Calumet Farm 14yr., Kentucky, 48.1 abv

29

Heavy notes on the nose of oak and molasses are rolled back as light scents of fresh corn, wood sugars and hay present. Smooth flavors of oak and char subside to reveal complex sensations of toasted grains, toffee and vanilla. The long finish leaves the palate with a subtle dryness followed by lasting flavors of rye and dark fruit.

Cascade Moon, Kentucky, 39.9 abv

28

“A result of a curious experiment.” Smells of leather upholstery and campfire toasted marshmallow. Juicy ripe golden apple, lemon zest, tropical fruit, vanilla, and graham with a surprisingly dry finish.

Chicken Cock Straight, Kentucky, 45 abv

18

Sweet toasted oak, corn husks, ripe banana, light caramel and bright rye notes.

Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel, Kentucky, 50 abv

26

Some pretty spicy notes, rich with oak. Then sweet and buttery, with a surprising hint of orange peel. Some tobacco smokiness follows with a very long finish.

Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch, Kentucky, 50 abv

14

Corn sweetness blended with rye spiciness and cinnamon. Very rich and creamy vanilla finish.

Copperworks Release No. 38, Seattle WA, 50 abv

18

Aromas of browned butter, orange cream, and grapefruit peel followed by ripe blackberry and spice. Flavors of honeydew, cut hay, Thai basil, and melon rind lead to a finish of blackberry, tomato vine, fruit, and a slight, sweet brininess.

Eagle Rare 10yr., Kentucky, 45 abv

16

Its complexity starts with fruit flavors of dark cherries, red apples and bananas. Then the spices of cinnamon, clove and allspice kick in. These are rounded by honey, caramel, milk chocolate, vanilla and toasty oak.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof 12 yr., Kentucky, 62.1 abv

16

Browning apples and orange peel, rich rye spice and a helping of cinnamon.

Elijah Craig 18yr. Single Barrel, Kentucky Bourbon, 45 abv 

38

The nose on this bourbon is invigorating and swirls with complexity. The vanilla and caramel flavors are expected but charred oak plows through without overwhelming the whiskey’s delivery.

Elmer T Lee Single Barrel, Kentucky, 45 abv

29

Warm with an inviting baked apple crisp with vanilla ice cream aroma. The palate finds more oats, apples, cinnamon, caramel and oak. The finish is long and spicy with the cinnamon

2022 SF World Spirits Competition “Best Of”“Old Ezra”, Ezra Brooks 7yr Barrel Strength, Kentucky, 58.5 abv

16

Notes of cherry, marzipan, figs, and a hint of anise play alongside the charred oak and vanilla.

Four Roses Single Barrel, Kentucky, 50 abv

15

Tart stone fruits, prunes, spices, morello cherries, cocoa and vanilla.

Four Roses S/B Barrel Strength OBSQ, Kentucky, 62.9 abv

25

Starting with a nose of oak, caramel, spice, vanilla, floral, dark fruit and an herbal nature with bits of roasted corn. Followed on the palate with more oak, spice, vanilla, olde candy, herbal, char, dark fruit and a bit of roasted grain.

Four Roses Small Batch Select, Kentucky, 52 abv

18

Cocoa powder dusted dark chocolate truffles shine through on the nose, with spearmint gum, spicy oak, and earthy-leather undertones. The palate offers salted caramel and peanut shells, along with licorice, oak, and baking spices, with a bit of a sharp astringency coming through towards the back.

George Dickel 13 yr Bottled in Bond, Tennessee, 50 abv

12

Aromas of brandied fruit, baking spices, and crusty bread emerge at an even pace and the palate is rich with classic black pepper and caramel.

George Dickel 15yr. Single Barrel, Tennessee, 50.4 abv

16

The nose shows brown butter, caramel, and apples, especially on further nosings. There's some char smoke and oak also, but they're both really integrated with the sweet notes on the palate. Lots of cinnamon here too, but again, the whiskey is moderately sweet to make this an easy sipper.

Heaven’s Door, Tennessee, 42 abv

15

Vanilla takes center stage on the palate, along with sweet grape juice, cedar wood, nutmeg, and cloves. A medium length, sweet finish again showcases vanilla, along with oak and spice.

Heaven's Door Single Barrel Barrel Pick, Tennessee, 59 abv

18

Stewed apricot jam with clove, cinnamon, honey meet the nose, while soft vanilla, caramel, and sweet cherry coat the palate. Spicy cinnamon, leather, and aromatic pipe tobacco linger for some time.

Henry McKenna 10 yr. Bottled in Bond, Kentucky, 50 abv

12

Spicy aromas followed closely by mint, orange peel and Nilla Wafers. Caramel, toffee and vanilla, then the rye kicks in with menthol, wood spices and citrus.

High West Campfire, Utah, 46 abv

19

Honey, leather, tobacco, pine resin. Smoke and peat, blueberries and toffee.

Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon, New York, 46 abv

26

Adored for its caramel, sweet fruit, spicy and sweet flavor notes.

I.W. Harper 15 yr, Kentucky, 43 abv

19

The nose is soft and mildly sweet, with vanilla, oak, toasted almond, freshly baked pound cake and a hint of orange blossom. On the palate is an initial wave of sweetness and grain notes appear immediately, giving way to cinnamon, oak and hints of dried plum and chocolate.

Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel, Tennessee, 47 abv

13

Honey, popcorn, and cinnamon countered by punchy peppery notes.

Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Cask Strength, Tennessee, 64.85 abv

16

Spiced banana bread, salted caramel, red hots, applesauce, burnt wood and maple sugar candy

2022 SF World Spirits Competition “Best Of” Jack Daniel’s 10yr, Tennessee, 48.5 abv

38

A wash of dry oaky tannin, leather, tobacco, and a hint of sweet tropical fruit.

Jack Daniel’s Sinatra, Tennessee, 45 abv

34

Honey, applejack and ripe peaches on the nose, but it's on the palate that the Sinatra barrel makes itself known. On-the-stove caramel, vanilla and peppery smoke prevail. The extra sweetness is balanced nicely by the higher proof.

Jefferson's Ocean Aged At Sea, Kentucky, 45 abv

24

Solid wood, strong sugar cane with caramel, corn, syrupy, salty vanilla.

Joseph Magnus sherry & cognac finish, Indiana/Kentucky, 50 abv

28

Sweet and spicy with sour berry, rich raisin, cinnamon and clove.  Oily, chocolatey, and fruity but dry finish accentuated by the sherry and cognac casks.

Kentucky Owl Confiscated Straight, Kentucky, 48 abv

35

Delicate and balanced bourbon. Rich stone fruit, toffee, hints of bitter tobacco, graham cracker, cinnamon and clove spice, dried leather and sun dried oak.

Knob Creek 9yr Single Barrel Reserve, Kentucky, 60 abv

15

Barrel strength fruit and woody richness, pine, herbal, sweet cornbread.

Knob Creek 12 yr., Kentucky, 50 abv

20

First up is vanilla pound cake, heavy oak and leather. Sweet vanilla and marshmallow give way to stronger notes of black and white pepper, spicy oak, and roasted peanuts.

Knob Creek 15 yr., Kentucky, 50 abv

28

Tangy and spicy while being dry, but not too dry. Some herbal notes and cherry add some complexity and there's a touch of leather found as well. Overall the oak is really nicely integrated here. The middle is sweet and the finish is bitter.

Koval Single Barrel Bourbon, Illinois, 47 abv

15

Ethanol is first to meet the nose, followed by hints of tropical fruit, warm butter, and white pepper, originating from the 51% / 49% corn/millet mashbill. Sweet caramel washes around dried fruit, apricot, chalk candies, and tajin coated mango. Certified organic!

Larceny Barrel Proof Batch B521, Kentucky, 60.5 abv

18

Flavors and aromas of candied apple, milk chocolate, vanilla, black pepper, cinnamon, clove, allspice and nutmeg mingle well with its more oaky characteristics and subtle char. The finish is slightly hot, but the flavors linger on nicely.

Little Book (Booker’s) Chapter 4: Lessons Honored, Kentucky, 61.2 abv

35

The nose has the aroma of steamed rice and cooked barley with a bit of baking spice and honey. The palate shows more of that earthy, roasted grain character, but some Meyer lemon citrus cuts through, as does tart dried cherry, clove, nutmeg, black pepper, vanilla, caramel and English breakfast tea.

Leopold Bros. Straight Bourbon, Colorado, 50 abv

17

Graham crackers and stewed fruits, earthy dry vanilla, damp wool, honey-nut Cheerios, black pepper and sweet malt fade to drying and spicy oak.

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength Batch 21-08, Kentucky, 56 abv

16

Savory and sweet graham cracker, toasted oak, and marshmallow. Then, cinnamon and cask strength wheat, vanilla, and honey.

Maker's Mark 46, Kentucky, 47 abv

13

Nutmeg, mulled wine spices, allspice, cinnamon. And a hint of hot apple juice.

Maker’s Mark Wood Finishing Series BRT-01, Kentucky, 54.7 abv

20

Butterscotch, gingersnap cookies, vanilla and pecan at first sip, then a spicy mix of stone fruit and pralines. Hot ginger and warm honey fade pleasantly to a mellow but woody finish.

Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series FAE-02, Kentucky,

20

A big fruit basket of oranges, ruby red grapefruit, red pear and red delicious apples elbow up to the front of the nose and palate. Further sniffs and sips introduce more herbaceous notes backed up by rich caramel, baking spices, toffee, milk chocolate and walnuts.

Mccarthy's Oregon Single Malt Whiskey, Oregon, 41.5 abv

16

Smoke, mesquite BBQ, and bitter dark chocolate.

Mccarthy's 6 yr. Oregon Single Malt Whiskey, Oregon, 50 abv

24

Honeyed barbeque sauce, smoldering campfire, toasted chestnut, Islay peat smoke

Michter's Small Batch Bourbon, Kentucky, 45.7 abv

14

Barley sugar and raisins, spicy with juicy fruit and cinnamon, kick of black pepper.

Michter’s Sour Mash Whiskey, Kentucky, 43 abv

14

Butterscotch, apple, and grated nutmeg with cherry, tart raspberry, cinnamon and a peppery heat that counterbalances its sweetness.

Noah’s Mill, Kentucky, 57 abv

22

Cinnamon, brown sugar, spicy ginger, a big pop of tannins, tobacco, and a hint of woodsy cedar continue into a long finish that seems to sweeten as it fades.

NEW Noble Oak Double Oak, Ohio, 45 abv

9

Classic sweet caramel and vanilla with sherry notes coming in at the finish, reminiscent of lightly bitter and sweet blackberries.

Old Elk Straight Wheat, Colorado, 44 abv

15

A honey forward nose with a citrusy background gives way to a bold corn flavor complemented by touches of caramel, oak, and vanilla

Old Elk Cognac Cask Finished, Colorado, 54.85 abv

26

Woodsy cedar, clove, cinnamon, tilled soil, red apple, white pepper, praline pecans

Old Forester 1920 ‘Prohibition Style’, Kentucky, 57.5 abv

18

Cherry preserves, dark caramel, malt nuttiness, smoky toasted marshmallow finish

Peerless, Kentucky, 43.5 abv

21

Fruity tobacco and oak at first, followed by cherry rock candy, baking spices, sweet caramel. An exceptionally bold and well balanced bourbon.

Penelope 4-Grain Barrel Strength Bourbon, Kentucky, 57.6 abv

18

Bright apricot and raspberry tempered with sweet caramel. Lingering cinnamon, allspice, and oak.

Rabbit Hole Dareringer, Kentucky, 46.5

20

Orange marmalade, cherry preserves, and fresh baked gingersnaps. Thick caramel counterbalanced with sour berry notes and a drying finish makes this a delightful experience.

Ransom “The Emerald” Straight American Whiskey, Oregon, 43.8 abv

15

Earthy and herbaceous, smoke & wine cask dregs. Spicy and mildly bitter finish.

Redemption 9yr Barrel Proof, Indiana, 51.95 abv

24

White pepper and smoked cured meats, over layers of cocoa, baking spices, and molasses. Dark fruits and toasted nuts with corn sweetness.

Redemption Cognac Cask finish, Indiana, 48.5

18

Copper, anise, and blackberry jam before a sweet caramel laced with earthy rye spice. Finishes with satisfying notes of dried fruit, leather, and cognac sweetness.

Redemption Wheated Straight, Indiana, 48 abv

19

A plume of vanilla and hazelnut meets the nose. More vanilla and tart apples, sun-dried oak, cinnamon candies, peppered cured meat. Oakey, dry and spicy finish.

Rock Hill Farms, Kentucky, 50 abv

25

The nose opens with light summer cherries, berries, baked apples, and light hay. Then, a dose of leather and oak, allspice, vanilla, toasted sugar, and finally rye spice.

Rowan’s Creek, Kentucky, 50 abv

16

Light orchard fruit, brown sugar, and cedar accompany sweet black tea and honey with oak and tannins ramping up on the finish.

Russell’s Reserve 13yr Barrel Proof, Kentucky, 57 abv

35

Peppery, ginger root and spicy cinnamon that balance a heavily oaked dram. Finishes with the quintessential combo of leather, oak, and tobacco.

Smoke Wagon Uncut Unfiltered, Nevada, 56.6 abv

27

Powerful and chewy dark fruits swirl around notes of chocolate, leather, and oak. 

Stagg Jr., Kentucky, 64.2 abv

35

Dark sweets, wood, cinnamon heavy spice, vanilla and a light bit of cocoa, fruit leather and sweet tobacco.

WHISKEY ADVOCATE TOP WHISKIES OF 2021 The Wiseman, Kentucky, 45.4

18

A mild and smooth dram. Predominantly caramel and allspice with a hint of orchard fruit, dry oak, and leather.

Trail’s End 8yr, Oregon, 45 abv

12

Nutty, brown sugar sweetness, woodsy, sour cherry, caramel, pralines, a drying finish with oaky tannins.

Uncle Nearest 1856, Tennessee, 50 abv

16

Spicy up front, fading into a long vanilla finish. In between are notes of rye spice, vanilla, cinnamon, and oak.

Vinn Whiskey, Oregon, 43 abv

14

Cocoa, pralines, graham, candied nuts, cinnamon heavy spice and light touches of vanilla, oak and grainy sweetness.

Wanderback Whiskey Batch No. 3 (ex-port cask), Oregon, 45 abv

20

A smooth single malt, finished in Port casks, with notes of pecan, dried dark fruit, and cocoa nibs.

Wanderback Whiskey Batch No. 5 (ex-Balcones cask), Oregon, 45 abv

20

Wildflower honey, cayenne pepper, cumin, orange marmalade and baking spices, spicy cinnamon and warm ginger.

Wellers Special Reserve, Kentucky, 45 abv

12

A balance of vanilla, savoury nuts, caramel, and a touch of spice.

Wellers Antique 107, Kentucky, 53.5 abv

16

Caramel, honey, dark fruit, spice, wood, and cocoa with a long finish.

Westland Sherry Wood, Washington, 46 abv

20

The aroma shows lots of orchard fruits along with their skins and as you continue to drink a bit of orange peel and chocolate are revealed. The whiskey has a light to moderate body along with a mild sweetness.

Westward American Single Malt, Oregon, 45 abv

16

Malted barley, spicy, vanilla and cinnamon flavor notes.

Westward Single Barrel Select, barrel #423, 62.5 abv, Oregon

26

Chocolate malt balls, robust mid palate, maple, spiced orange sponge cake, barley syrup, latte foam

STAFF PICK  Westward Oregon Stout Cask, Oregon, 45 abv

25

A taste of oak is present throughout the sip,but the stout is strong, and it releases the flavor of coffee and roasted cocoa nibs. Warm toasted pecan and malt linger.

Westward Pinot Noir Cask, Oregon, 50 abv

26

Dried red fruits  roasted barley, tangerine skin, and a hint of dried hops.

Westward X Ken’s Artisan Sourdough, Oregon, 45 abv

26

Cocoa bean, bright peach and pineapple notes. With rye spice, more juicy peach, coconut, macaroons and melon. Leading into sandalwood, nutmeg and orange peel on the finish.

Whiskey Del Bac, Mesquite Smoked Single Malt, Arizona, 45 abv

20

Smoke is dominant, though oak and dried chile, trailing spice in their wake, add to the complexity of the nose. Emerging on the palate is a nice smoky sweetness reminiscent of campfire-toasted s'mores to which a perverse adult has added a smear of chipotle en adobo.

Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit, Kentucky, 50.5

16

Leather and oak notes balance the generous amounts of caramel, vanilla, orange, and cinnamon.

Wild Turkey Longbranch, Kentucky, 43 abv

14

Pecan, cinnamon, leather, and tobacco along with gentle smoke are to be found on the nose. Slick on the palate, the bourbon has a medium-light body. Flavorwise, you'll find vanilla and sweet corn take over along with some toffee and apple skins. Closes with a bittersweet back note and mild smoke.

Willett Pot Still Reserve, Kentucky, 47

16

Wood characteristics with the addition of leather and rye bread. Caramel, floral, herbal and apple notes.

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Kentucky, 45 abv

14

Sweet oaken character with developing fruit, vanilla, and caramel notes.

Woodinville Moscatel Finished Bourbon, Washington, 50 abv

26

Spiced cherry preserves, rock candy, sweet candied hazelnuts, boysenberry jam, vanilla taffy.

Woodinville Port Cask Finished Bourbon, Washington, 45 abv

15

Intense nose of rich oak, brown sugar, and vanilla. Peach, cherry, plum, and caramel coat the palate. Hints of Concord grape exit with soft oak tannins and cinnamon baking spice.

Woodinville PX Sherry Cask Finished Bourbon, Washington, 47.5 abv

17

Grains, hay, nice sour lactic notes, and cashew on the nose. The palate is nice and light, gently sweet and very quaffable. Still, it is balanced with richer notes of honey, custard, nutmeg and baked apple. It finishes sweet and chewy.

Wyoming Single Barrel, Wyoming, 44 abv

18

The nose showcases vanilla custard, dark chocolate, and baking spices, along with touches of citrus zest. The palate is a bit soft at first and offers ginger snaps, along with a chocolate-malt rich sweetness. There's also biscuit, buttery pie crust, oak, and vanilla. The lengthy finish showcases apple crumb cake, black pepper, ginger, and spearmint, along with more dry oak and spice.

Yellowstone Select, Kentucky, 41.5 abv

9

A straightforward and easy-going dram of toasted oak, vanilla, and baking spice. Light fruit sweetness, marshmallow, leather, and slight white pepper to finish.

Yellowstone 101 Limited Edition Amarone cask finish, Kentucky, 50.5 abv

28

Nose of caramel, raisin, chocolate-covered raspberries, baking spice, and vanilla. Dark fruit jam and citrus on the palate with accompanying spicy ginger, clove, and oak to balance the Amarone wine sweetness.

Yellowstone 101 Limited Edition Marsala cask finish, Kentucky, 50.5 abv

33

Rich, with sweet caramelized fruit, molasses, milk chocolate, hazelnut, grain forward,and a silky texture.

Aberfeldy 12yr., Highland, 40 abv

15

Light dried fruit, leather, buttery brown sugar and clove, with a hint of salinity and citrus.

Aberlour 12 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

14

Orange and lemon notes, then some vanilla and toffee.

Aberlour 16 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

22

Bursting with lush plum, raisin and light floral notes.

Aberlour 18 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

42

The sherry is prominent in the nose, but don’t be fooled, this is still whisky. Big with fruit, the nose boasts ripe peach and apricot, warm vanilla and plump raisins. Ripe juicy orange, chocolate covered raisins, peach marmalade and vanilla spice cake round out this supple whisky that finishes long with cocoa, cinnamon and orange zest.

Aberlour A'Bunadh, Speyside, 59.9 abv

24

Cloves, malt stewed plums and raw cinnamon with a touch of tobacco.

Ardbeg An Oa, Islay, 46.6 abv

19

Notes of cigars and golden syrup flapjacks with sweet black tea on the tail and hints of chocolate limes.

Ardbeg Ardcore, Islay, 46 abv

32

Green apple, white lightning, peppercorn, and barbequed pineapple. A burst of intense dark chocolate, salted toffee, anise, and smoldering campfire embers from the black malt barley.

Ardbeg Arrrrrrrrrrdbeg!, Islay, 51.8 abv

50

Aromas of smoked banana and pears drift to some rye bread, sweet vanilla toffee and a gentle anise breeze. On the palate, a blunderbuss ignites fruity aromas such as melons and kiwis. An armada of anise appears, accompanied by smoked toffee and a hint of sweet sourdough rolls

Ardbeg Corryvreckan, Islay, 57.1 abv

33

Herbal and buttery, like roasting chicken. Medicinal, briney, smoked meat, hot tarmac, pine and herbal notes sing underneath classic Islay peat smoke.

NEW Ardbeg Hypernova, Islay, 51 abv

55

Sweet licorice, sea salt and black pepper, with underlying oak, lemon curd, viscous mouthfeel and lingering peat smoke. Ardbeg’s most heavily peated whiskey to date!

Ardbeg Scorch, Islay, 46 abv

30

Sweet and juicy at first, then smoky and spicy before everything melts together very nicely. The sweetness has a confected and old fashioned sweet shop feel. It is full of cinder toffee, butterscotch, honey lozenges, fruity boiled sweets and candy canes. Then comes the smoke almost immediately after. This has a burnt biscuit-like quality and then becomes ashy, hot and drying.

Ardbeg Scorch Committee Release 2021, Islay, 51.7 abv

40

On the nose, frighteningly intense aromas of soot and smoke lie in wait. Hints of aniseed and fragrant patchouli interlace with bold notes of quenched steel and saddle soap. Take a sip and experience layer upon layer of flavor. An oily mouthfeel grips the senses. Billowy clouds of sweet smoke and dragon charred oak permeate the palate, while grilled fare and black licorice weave between notes of medicinal lozenge.

Ardbeg Wee Beastie, Islay, 47.4 abv

15

Saltwater taffy, raspberry syrup, candied pears, and fudge. The finish offers soil and seaweed, seasoned with salt and pepper, as well as a light touch of dried fruits.

Auchentoshan American Oak, Lowlands, 40 abv

14

Bounty bars, citrus peels and peaches. A bit buttery, with golden barley and oak spice.

Auchentoshan Three Wood, Lowlands, 43 abv

24

Rich. Liqueur cherries in dark chocolate, sherried fruit, ripe dark forest fruits.

Auchentoshan Virgin Oak, Lowlands, 46 abv

41

Wood spices are fairly prominent on the nose along with wood dust and raw barley. Another note that comes across is pine and vanilla. The whisky is just a touch sweet with a hint of pears.

Bladnoch Samsara, Lowland, 46.7 abv

19

California wine cask finish is prevalent at first with peach, vanilla, and orange zest. Sweet malt, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of white pepper. 

Balvenie 12 yr. Single Barrel, Speyside, 47.8 abv

23

Allspice and toffee apples. Cooked fruit and baking spices, hints of sponge cake and creamy caramel.

Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

24

Sweet creamy vanilla with notes of apples and mangoes, hint of orange.

Bowmore 12 yr., Islay, 40 abv

17

Vanilla, perfumed smoke, and coastal elements. Dark Peat. Blossom, oily sweetness.

Bowmore 15 yr., Islay, 44 abv

26

Dark & punchy. Syrupy sherry notes. Lovely, creamy toffee and smoky malt.

Bowmore 18 yr., Islay, 43 abv

45

A perfect harmony of sweet and savory notes. The foreground is honey and black jam. Diving a bit further you discover seaweed, salted caramel, and cinnamon spices.

STAFF PICK Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2012, Islay, 50 abv

21

Apple-buttered oatmeal, sweet malt, cereals, rice pudding, pears, a tinge of citrus, salted toffee and fudge.

NEW Bruichladdich Islay Barley 2013, Islay, 50 abv

22

Citrusy compound butter, honey, dry oats, lemon meringue pie.

Bruichladdich Classic Laddie [unpeated], Islay, 46 abv

16

The barley really shines through on the nose with bright fruity flavors of apple and citrus followed by sweet, round cereal malts and demerara sugar.

Bruichladdich Port Charlotte 10yr., Islay, 50 abv

20

Burnt graham crackers, honey, a touch of banana gentle waft from this dram. Sweet and lightly smokey malt gives way to oatmeal cookies, herbal hay, saline, and iodine. Oily, rich, and extremely well balanced.

Bunnahabhain 12 yr., Islay, 46.3 abv

20

Fresh, sweet, seaweed on the nose followed by a soft nutty sherry sweetness. Slightly coastal with a balanced salty tang.

Caol Ila 12 yr., Islay, 43 abv

19

Hints of autumn rise out of the glass with apples, pears, and scents of the season's first fires. This is followed by sea grass and black tea.

Clynelish 14 yr., Highland, 46 abv

19

Orange, soft acidity. Dry oak. Mixed fruits, vanilla, leather.

WHISKEY ADVOCATE TOP WHISKIES OF 2021 Compass Box No Name No.3

40

Primarily an intriguing blend of Laphroiag’s seaweed barbeque and Bowmore’s smoked tropical fruits. Oily smoke, seashells, sage, sweet pineapple, clove. The final entry to the ‘No Name’ series.

Compass Box The Peat Monster, Blended, 46 abv

20

Smoke, honey, fruit, butter, graham, cinnamon oil, vanilla and a bit of cakey sweetness with a looong finish of smoke, honey, butter, cinnamon and fruit.

Compass Box Story of the Spaniard, Blended, 43 abv

23

Oily sherry sweetness, complex dried dark and orchard fruit, fruit candy sweetness and some bits of honey, toffee and spice.  

Dalmore 12 yr., Highland, 43 abv

18

Dark honey aroma with sherry coming through on the taste with cinnamon, dried fruits, bitter chocolate, and espresso.

Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve, Highland, 44 abv

39

The nose offers bright orange peel, rich aromas of figs and raisins followed by dry Baker’s chocolate, nutty sherry notes and just a whisper of delicate smoke. The palate is robust with ripe tropical fruit, raisins and orange zest. This is followed by dark chocolate, vanilla and unctuous sherry notes. This whisky finishes long and spicy with hints of fennel, sharp ginger and rich vanilla notes.

Dalmore Portwood Reserve, Highland, 46.5 abv

28

Clove studded orange, rich raspberry and prune, touch of sponge cake.

Dalwhinnie 15 yr., Highland, 43 abv

22

Malty. Walnuts steeped in manuka honey with vanilla sponge.

Deanston 12 yr., Highland, 46.3 abv

18

One of the first aromas that stands out is wool. Other flavors found are bright lemon zest, breakfast tea and vanilla

Deanston 17yr, 2002 Organic PX Sherry Finish, Highland, 49.3 abv

38

Dried fruits, caramel, raisins, dates, maple syrup, sour berries, and honey. 

Deanston 18 yr., Highland, 46.3 abv

35

Minty-fresh, with a hint of milk chocolate, orchard fruits, as well as a touch of dried grass and ripe banana.

Glen Grant 12 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

15

Rich, sweet red apple notes. Golden barley in the background.

Glendronach 12 yr., Highland, 43 abv

18

Fruits, buttery pain au chocolat, a little marmalade on toast before becoming firmer and nuttier with spiced raisins.

Glendronach 18 yr. Allardice, Highland, 46 abv

46

Big sugary raisins, sour plums, dates, cinnamon, and allspice with a big dark woody middle. Sugared almonds and butter, with a bit of grainy wood finish.

WHISKEY ADVOCATE TOP WHISKIES OF 2021 Glendronach Port Wood, Highland, 46 abv

22

The nose shows as a sherry bomb with prunes, sultanas and a touch of rancio, along with warm cherry pie topped with vanilla ice cream. The palate is rich and waxy, with clover honey, berries, ginger chews, candied orange zest and spicy oak. The finish is warming and moderate in length with milk chocolate, fruitcake and peaches in syrup.

Glenfarclas 12 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

14

Light and creamy, notes of date and walnut cake, Oloroso sherry, earthy forest floor. Spicy and long finish with a note of toffee apple and a touch of smoke.

Glenfiddich 12 yr., Speyside, 40 abv

13

Light, floral, light spices. Very smooth. Great entry Scotch for the uninitiated.

Glenfiddich 14 yr., Speyside, 43 abv

15

Rich, sweet, creamy toffee, woody spices, candied orange peel and fresh toasted oak.

Glenfiddich Fire & Cane, Speyside, 43 abv

14

A Highland peat campfire, with oak notes and toffee; baked apple and soft smoke.

Glengoyne 10yr., Highland, 43 abv

15

Tart apples and toasted caramel with a bit of milk chocolate. A slightly bitter espresso finish that is surprisingly pleasing.

Glengoyne 21 yr., Highland, 43 abv

45

The initial impressions are those of a classic sherry-cask-aged whisky, with plenty of fruits, like red dried plums in this instance, and toasted barley. This Glengoyne is mostly fruity, floral and gently spicy.

Glenkinchie 12 yr., Lowlands, 43 abv

19

Mix of stewed fruits, dessert wine, apple peels and honey. Finishes quite oaky.

Glenlivet 15yr French Oak, Speyside, 40 abv

21

An aroma of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal first comes to mind upon bringing the whisky to your nose. As you taste, more sweets are unearthed such as butterscotch and vanilla cream.

NEW Glenmorangie A Tale of the Forest, Highlands, 46 abv

28

Like a brisk hike through the Scottish Highlands; a hint of peat smoke in the air, sweet flowering groundcover, juniper, and earthy bark. A touch of orange peel, soft oak, and botanical smoke.

Glenmorangie 18 yr., Highland, 43 abv

32

Tinned citrus, lychee, very creamy, sweet vanilla

Glenmorangie The Cadboll Estate 15yr, Highland, 43 abv

22

An incredibly delicate dram; citrus and buttery oak play well with salted caramel, hints of banana, and white pepper

Glenmorangie Nectar D'Or, Highland, 46 abv

18

Apricot, peach, and honey. Grains, ginger, and cinnamon come through as well as white grapes, coconut, and vanilla round out the sweet notes.

Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 yr.., Highland, 46 abv

17

Chocolate mousse, bourbon biscuits, orange oil, toasted almonds, black currant and dark chocolate.

Glenrothes 10 yr., Speyside 40 abv

10

Tootsie roll in a glass. Chocolate and cinnamon with cream and nutty elements.

Glen Scotia Double Cask, Campbelltown, 46 abv

14

Vibrant fruit emerges with fudge and a dusting of powdered sugar.  Powerfully oily with hints of sherry.

Glen Scotia 15 yr., Campbelltown, 46 abv

20

Candied ginger, lemon & grapefruit peel, and ripe stone fruits add texture. A cedar-wood spice note with a puff of smoke dries the sweetness toward the finish.

2022 SF World Spirits Competition “Best Of”  Glen Scotia Victoriana, Campbelltown, 51.5 abv

25

Some sweet, oxidized citrus and nutty flavors suggest some sherry casks in the mix, as does the burnt sunset-orange color. There is also a heavy oatmeal/spice/cereal element. Pleasing milk chocolate, caramel and gingerbread spices round out the flavor profile into the finish.

Hazelburn 13yr, Campbelltown, 47.4 abv

45

The nose of this shows gentle smoke, light nuts, sultana raisins, grilled peaches, fresh grain, vanilla, and savory spices. The palate has an initial richness from the oloroso barrel that gives way to raisins, gentle smoke, grilled peaches, honeycomb, and turned soil, savory nutmeg and clove.

Highland Park 12 yr. Viking Honour, Highland, 40 abv

15

Grilled orange. Notes of granary toast and green tea with jasmine.

Highland Park 15yr. Viking Heart, Highland, 44 abv

26

Rich and spicy aromas of crème brulee, heather honey and crumbled cinnamon followed by fresh pineapple, a scattering of lemon zest, freshly-baked vanilla sponge cake and lightly smokey peated cinnamon.

Highland Park, Cask Strength, Highland, 63.9 abv

21

Aromas of ripe sweet pear and light peat smoke. Syrupy pear and almond cake topped with sea salt, white pepper and anise to finish.

Isle of Jura 10 yr., Highland, 43 abv

11

Oily, subtle spice, earthy vanilla pod, chocolate covered raisins. A hint of smoke.

Johnnie Walker Blue, Blended Scotch, 40 abv

56

Take a sip and find dates, and floral notes with a touch of spice, but the smoldering peat does sneak up on you.

Kilchoman Machir Bay, Islay, 46 abv

17

Peat smoke laced with wildflowers and honey, briney lemon, peach, pear, and mineral notes

Kilchoman Madeira Cask Finished, Islay, 50 abv

31

Briny beach campfire, burnt sugar, almond extract, spice cake, dark chocolate, medicinal orange marmalade, fortified wine, dried peach

Kilchoman Sanaig, Islay, 46 abv

19

Boasting tropical fruit and preserved lemon peel, with brine and peat on the palate.. Dark chocolate-covered raisins and black pepper play well with a touch of plum.

Lagavulin 8 yr., Islay, 48 abv

18

Smokey peat appears first on the palate, followed by coriander seed, barley sugar, cumin powder, smoked kipper and marzipan.

Lagavulin 11 yr. Nick Offerman Charred Cask edition, Islay, 46  abv

24

Honey, malt, brown sugar, iodine, light vanilla, pecan pie, spiced dried fruit, campfire smoke.

2022 SF World Spirits Competition “Best Of” Lagavulin 16 yr., Islay, 43 abv

25

A massive mouthful of malt and sherry with fruity sweetness, powerful peat and oak.

Laphroaig 10 yr., Islay, 40 abv

18

Seaweed-led, with a hint of vanilla ice cream, cardamom/black pepper/chilli.

Ledaig 10yr, Mull, 46.3

22

Medicinal butterscotch, warm honey, and fresh cut grass. Briney burnt driftwood melds seamlessly with brown sugar and very dark chocolate.

Linkwood 12yr Flora and Fauna, Speyside, 43 abv

15

An extremely delicate dram, but well rounded. Apples, haygrass, honey, light vanilla, with a touch of white pepper, pine, and citrus.

Loch Lomond 12 yr., Highland, 40 abv

12

Creamy vanilla ice cream over brown sugar laden apple pie. Five spice and orchard fruits with drying vanilla and wood finish.

Loch Lomond 18 yr., Highland, 40 abv

22

Nutty brown bread with a layer of blackcurrant jam. Slight smokiness along the way.

Macallan Harmony Cacao, Speyside, 44 abv

35

Chocolate fondant, honey, oak, zesty lime and ginger on the nose before a palate of dark chocolate, honey, dates, vanilla and cinnamon.

NEW Macallan Harmony Arabica, Speyside, 44 abv

40

Sherry sweetened oak, raisins, tiramisu, almond, dark chocolate and espresso.

NEW Macallan Classic Cut 2022, Speyside, 52.5 abv

32

The nose is sweet elderflower, apples and raisins. Rich woody midpalate balanced with a hint of grapefruit and dark chocolate and a pleasantly spiced finish.

Macallan 12 yr. Double Cask, Speyside, 43 abv

20

Sherry, plums, powdered sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Mossburn Linkwood, Speyside, 46 abv

21

Salted caramel covered pear wafts from this dram, followed closely by a playfully light palate of white grape, anise seed, lemon zest, and vanilla.

Monkey Shoulder, Speyside, 43 abv

10

Sunshiney orange marmalade with a drizzling of honey on warm toast.

Mortlach 12yr. "Wee Witchie", Speyside, 43.4 abv

18

Baked apples, bananas, and nutmeg are a delight combined with a creamy texture.

Mortlach 16yr, Speyside, 43.4 abv

32

Gingersnaps and orange peel, chestnuts, raisins, ginger and a hint of peat smoke,

Oban 14 yr., Highland, 43 abv

24

Pears, sea salt, heather, toasted barley, and a touch of earthy peat smoke.

Oban Distillers Edition, Highland, 43 abv

29

Creamy and soft on the palate with light sea salt, peanut brittle, and dark caramel. The dram is slightly more chewy than the Oban 14, but still retains the mild heather and peat smoke profile.

Old Pulteney Navigator, Highland, 46 abv

16

Drips of honey and syrup-y orange, a salty finish sneaks up from nowhere.

Old Pulteney 15yr, Highland , 41 abv

23

Rich dried fruit, ripe apples and citrus, creamy vanilla-banana shake. Honey graham, earthy hay and malt. Slightly chocolaty and floral in the background.

2022 SF World Spirits Competition “Best Of” Orphan Barrel Muckety-Muck 24yr, Lowland, 45 abv

65

Fruity notes like pear and apple skins come through strongly. A medium light body with a crème brûlée sweetness, but the finish is moderately spicy and  bittersweet.

Royal Brackla 12yr., Highland, 40 abv

20

Strong nutty and sweet sherry permeates the air around this pour. Malt, almond paste, black pepper, drying oak, fruit and honey finish with very little burn.

Tobermory 12yr., Highlands (Mull), 46.3 abv

17

The nose is quite earthy with a hint of sweet malt and vanilla custard, but also some orange zest. Just a tinge of copper coins and plenty of minerality. The prominent barley notes on the palate are accompanied by vibrant citrus flavors, quickly followed by a hit of oak shavings and spices—this is where the virgin oak makes its presence known. Rather rich and pretty well put together

STAFF PICK  Tobermory 17yr., Highlands (Mull), 55.9 abv

30

Sweet malty vanilla juxtaposed with sharp fruity raspberry, heavily spiced fruitcake, viscous toffee, burnt caramel, light orange zest, and a snippet of oak and leather.

Tobermory 21yr., Highlands (Mull), 55.9 abv

53

Pear and dried fruit with spiced orange, toffee, bitter chocolate, and rich oak. Subtle vanilla and spiced orange linger with traces of vanilla.

Tomatin 12yr., Highland,  43 abv

11

Classic Highland Scotch aroma; pears, apples, and honey. Light bodied, slightly briney and fruity with hints of almond with a bit of white pepper to finish

Tomatin Cuatro Series Sherry Cask, Highland, 46 abv

22

Full bodied with peppery spice, Oolong tea, liquorice, almonds, and creme brulee.

291 Single Barrel, Colorado, 50.8 abv

25

Dark chocolate is showcased on the nose, with apricots, raspberries, and syrupy trail mix. The palate is rich, with chocolate and spearmint to the tune of thin mint cookies, as well as salted chocolate truffles, cedar box, and baking spices.

291 Barrel Proof Single Barrel, 64.5 abv

33

Viscous caramel, citrusy hops, and tropical fruit notes followed by a wave of peppery spice, dark dried fruit and earthy baking spices.

STAFF PICK Angel’s Envy, Kentucky, 50 abv

23

Gingerbread and molasses play off maple sugar candies.

Balcones Rye, Texas, 50 abv

11

The nose offers apple pie topped with a cinnamon crumble crust. The palate is somewhat hot on entry and showcases cacao nibs, green chiles, tobacco, dark chocolate, and malt. A fleeting but robust finish brings dry oak, cedar, and sawdust.

Barrell Seagrass, 59.2 abv

25

Apricot jam and peach preserves lead off on the nose, along with spearmint, anise, and rye spice. The palate is big, and multi-layered with notes of dark chocolate and cacao, raspberries, and thyme, followed by molasses, maple syrup, and Seville oranges. The finish offers vanilla, pecan pie, cinnamon, and cloves, with dried fruits and a lengthy, warming flourish of heat.

Basil Hayden's Dark {Port Wine Fortified}, Kentucky, 40 abv

14

Sugary grapey spice with a bit of vanilla, sour fruit and a touch of oak.

Blackened Double Cask, Madeira and Rum Cask, Kentucky, 45 abv

19

Warming rye spices and thick caramel, dried figs, pine wood, pear, vanilla-rum bundt cake, mint, walnut, and cinnamon.

STAFF PICK  Blackened x Willett Madeira cask finish, 54.8 abv

38

Sweet-simmered rhubarb and brown sugar butter, corn husk, vanilla bean, cigar box and ripe fig on the nose. A mouth-warming symmetry of buttery caramel & earthy mint on the palate, with a degree of raspberry sweetness from the Madeira cask-finish, balancing with the rustic notes of fresh cut hay from the high rye and rolling into a white pepper, cinnamon butter & walnut finish.

Colonel E.H. Taylor Straight Rye, Kentucky, 50 abv

22

Bottled in bond with notes of rye spice, vanilla, caramel, fruit, oak, black tea, cinnamon, leather, nutmeg, and a bit of pepper.

Catoctin Creek Roundstone Rye, Virginia, 58 abv

24

Very buttery with rye grassiness, vanilla, baking spices and a little oak. A long finish with buttery baking spices.

Dad’s Hat, Pennsylvania, 45 abv

12

An excellent young rye; aged 6 months in new oak quarter casks. The nose is clean and complex; crushed grain, grasses, sweet spice and the bitter herbal note of rye, with a similar palate.

Doc Swinson’s Straight Rye, Indiana, 47.5 abv

16

Aromas of cedar plank, spiced raisin bread, dressed fennel salad, and Irish soda bread with a satiny, crisp, dryish light-to-medium body and a tingling, interesting, medium-length dill, chocolate, and roasted peanuts finish.