Before we get to this week’s review, let’s nip an argument in the bud before it even starts. If a product meets all the legal requirements to be considered a bourbon, it can be classified a bourbon. As long as any additional steps don’t add any flavors, it can be classified a bourbon. So, let’s say, the distillate is filtered through something like, oh..I dunno…maple charcoal chips…it is still classified as a bourbon, but can be called something else…like…Tennessee whiskey. Now, the bourbon = Tennessee whiskey or ir doesn’t is for another day, but tonight’s pour falls into that argument as it is Uncle Nearest 1856 premium whiskey.
The story behind Uncle Nearest is one of the most interesting reads you will find in the storied history of bourbon whiskey. It is a post all in it’s own, but take about 10 minutes and watis video about Nathan “Nearest” Green, truly fascinating and intriguing. This means Uncle Nearest 1856 gets the coveted 10 That’s Cool points because the story is simply amazing!
Now that you know the history, let’s dig in. Coming on at 100 proof, Uncle Nearest comes across the nose with very nice citrus notes and some smokiness. I also pick up some brown sugar and vanilla. Overall, very nice first impression.
The first sip immediately lets you know it’s here. The citrus comes in, but is quickly taken over by a spiciness as it covers the tongue with a nice warmth. Future sips reveal molasses and some nice roasted corn. The beauty of this is that the flavors flow together wonderfully. They mesh together in an almost seamless manner. The only thing I can find wrong is I prefer a bit more oak flavor in my bourbons…sorry…whiskey…and while there is some oak on the nose, there isn’t much on the palate. Personal preference, but this is, after all, my review 🙂
The finish lingers nicely and opens up some of the caramel flavors and the oak I was looking for in the palate finally comes to light. Out of nowhere, some peanut notes come and then that little bit of sweetness we had on the palate comes to the forefront in the finish.
Overall, I am very impressed with Uncle Nearest 1856. Outside of the Tennessee whiskey argument, it is a solid, solid pour. Incredibly smooth, great flavor profile, I would highly recommend this one.
Uncle Nearest 1856
9.1
Pros
- Very inviting nose
- Long lasting finish
Cons
- Not much oak on the palate
- Creates argument of bourbon vs Tennessee Whiskey