Notes: This bourbon dates back to at least 1840, and perhaps longer by some accounts. It was made by a number of different companies and distilleries. it is currently produced and owned by Jim Beam. This whiskey comes in a few incarnations – 100 proof, the 114 proof Barrel Strength, and this one, the 86 proof version.

Appearance: Pleasing bronze/gold color – a younger whiskey than some we have tried recently (older whiskey has more of a red shift in the color). Nice edge line on the glass when you swirl it, smooth layer of whisky on swirling, some legs.

First Impression: Dried fruits,pecans,tobacco,and caramel notes on nosing. Very spirity/alcohol vapors. Lots of oak influence on the whiskey both in color and smell.

Taste: Pretty raw stuff. Rye, oak and some sweetness to it. Vanilla and caramel come out from the oak barrels. Fair amount of burn as it goes down and a bit astringent towards the end. A rather simple and uncomplicated bourbon with some body to it.

Drinks: We tried it in a Manhattan, and the consensus was. . . maybe. As to other drinks – good for a casual highball or other uncomplicated drinks. You will need to experiment and adjust recipes if you are used to using a sweeter, heavier-bodied bourbon.

Cigars: Yes, works well with a milder cigars.

Final Thoughts: Youngish with rough edges- old school and better than Jim Beam, if you like your whiskey a bit young, raw, and uncomplicated you will like it. I used to drink this bourbon when I was young (age 10 or 12 onwards if I remember correctly), but haven’t had it in a numbers of years. I can’t say I would go back to it. It is however better than a number of alternatives in it’s price range.

Bottle: The bottle has changed a bit over the years. Standard American whiskey bottle shape, black printing with gold edges on an orange background. Yellow/gold neckwrap and screwcap closure.

Website: Sadly, there is not even a website for this brand. However, numerous references can be found on the web.