The Details
Tasting Notes
Introduction:
Sometime last summer (2021) this whiskey just seemed ubiquitous. Every liquor store small and large seemed to have at least the bourbon and rye, and honestly just didn’t give it a second glance. Maybe due to the simplistic bottling, or the fact that I tend to keep my eye out for more rare bourbon. I finally asked about it and was given rave reviews, and was told it was made by the same company that did Barrell Bourbon. Knowing that was a prestigious whiskey, I decided it was worth the $50 gamble. And boy, I’m disappointed I didn’t jump on the Stellum band wagon sooner. A fantastic sipper for sure, and just can’t wait to buy and review the Rye among other Stellum labels.
Color:
Badass Burnt Mahogany
Nose:
Instant spice hits you in the nose. Before sipping it, you can tell it’s a hot whiskey. Along with the allspice comes a wet oak, with a hint of a cigar box. Some alcoholic bubble gum near the end.
Palate:
Strong, but sweet. Powerfully complex flavors. Spicy oat bran, with a slight touch of ginger to finish. Definitely stays hot on the chest if too big of sip is taken. The breath out tastes like a musty old, wet wood, in a good way.
Conclusion:
Small sips needed for sure. It’s not terribly hot for a 57% whiskey, but anything above ~55% to me seems to numb the taste buds after sipping on it for a while. However, I’ve been reeeeaaaally enjoying this whiskey. I must enjoy it, as the first bottle was finished faster than most of my other bottles. The fact that it’s only $50-55, extremely available and hits the right spots, I will always have Stellum on hand. I also love using cask strength in cocktails and Stellum makes an excellent old fashioned. I’ll update with any other cocktails I attempt with this one.