The Details
Tasting Notes
Introduction:
Funny enough, I was actually able to buy this just weeks after the recommendation for a colleague. Fall time is the perfect time for whiskey purchases. I tell my wife that my normal monthly budget is non-existent during these times. But I’ve always seen Ezra, but rarely Old Ezra 7. With bottle in hand, and whiskey in dram, I experienced my first tasting…and I was absolutely pleased. A worthy whiskey that stands up to most. And a whiskey I hope to always have on the shelf.
Color:
Ostentatious Oak
Nose:
Like most whiskey’s I’ve been reviewing lately, it comes off alcoholically strong. You’re greeted with a charcoal warmness that eventually turns hot and will burn you if you’re not too careful. Have to respect it and take small sniffs. The sweet vanilla start, tied in with a bit of allspice near the end.
Palate:
First sip is hot, but so damn good. Gotta get that initial burn out of the way before proceeding to second sip. Burn definitely sits for awhile at the back of the throat. But you’re definitely greeted with strong toffee and oaky flavors, almost a hint of vanilla caramel. Very smooth fat buttery finish, with a slight corny and husky end.
If 59% is too hot. Still tastes pretty damn good with a splash of water. Opens up and lightens the flavor a bit. Almost opens up the corn too much however.
Conclusion:
This is a good whiskey. I just don’t think as good as some of the other barrel strength’s I’ve been reviewing lately. I hate putting this at a 6, but something tells me it’s not up there in the 7’s with Stellum or Four Roses SB. For me I think it’s (supposedly) the high corn in mash bill. But considering it’s allocated, and relatively a good price, I can’t think of any reason not to pick this up when I can.
Try this if you like:
Heaven Hill BIB, Larceny Barrel Proof, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof