Name: I.W. Harper 15 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

ABV: 43%

Proof: 86

Nose: Citrus, Cinnamon, Light Oak

Palate: Oak, Citrus Fruits, Dark Chocolate

Finish: Short, light in flavor mainly citrus and caramel

Overall: On the nose I was greeted with a solid citrus aroma with some notes of cinnamon and light oak. At first sip oak was the prominent flavor up front with citrus fruits being a strong second and notes of dark chocolate mixed in. The citrus and oak flavors were both light in flavor and there was a bit of heat with this whiskey but it quickly fades. The finish is short and light in flavor with citrus and caramel notes and little bite or burn. I sipped this one neat, I feel adding a splash or rocks would mellow this bourbon out too much. The extra time in the barrel for this whiskey did it some good but I was expecting a bit more in flavor.

Overall, this is a good whiskey and would be a great example of a high end whiskey for those beginning to acquire a taste for bourbon as the proof is low and the flavors are straight forward. This would also be a great bourbon for pairing a cigar with. The price of this whiskey seems to vary a great deal. I’ve seen it listed as low as $65 and as high as $149 due to the limited availability. It can easily pull a higher price tag but I’m not sure I would break the $100 mark for this whiskey. If you are seeking a unique and easy sipping whiskey then give this expression a try.