Spirits Blind Tasting - A Spirits People Podcast

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Weller Full Proof Bourbon, from my good friend Lee aka @thirstybelgian. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education #whiskytube

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Elijah Craig Single Barrel Bourbon, 8 year old bottling from the 90’s from Henrik Brandt from the Nordic Bourbon Community. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education #whiskytube

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Compass Box Whisky - Orangerie Scotch Whisky Infusion from The Dram Team. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education #whiskytube

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Mackmyra Vinterglöd Swedish Single Malt Whisky provided by an unknown legend in the whiskey community. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education #whiskytube

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of That Boutique-y Whisky Company - Bourbon Whiskey No. 1 (24 year old - batch 1 bourbon whiskey) provided by an unknown legend in the whiskey community. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Ben Riach 2005 12 year PX cask Single Malt Whisky provided by my good friend Ian, also known as PoshScotch in the online Whisky Community. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Santa Teresa 1796 Ron Antiguo de Solera Rum provided by my good friend Henrik from Nordic Bourbon Community. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Loch Lomond 21 Year Single Grain Whisky provided by my good friend Ian, also known as PoshScotch in the online Whisky Community. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Wild Turkey Longbranch Bourbon provided by my good friend Sam who used to work for Wild Turkey. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #education

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Savanna Herr Blanc 57% Reunion Island Rum provided by my good friend and rum extraordinaire, Steven who runs the world famous Rum Diaries Blog. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople#spiritsblindtasting #spiritspeople #curiousdrinkers #tasting #blindtasting #podcast #patreon #community #wset #educationCheck out Steven's Blog here: https://rumdiariesblog.wordpress.com/

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Arran 21 Year Single Cask Single Malt (Norway exclusive) provided by Norwegian Whisky Enthusiast Rolf aka Ebbhead around the interwebs. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of River Antoine Rum 69% (Tourist bottling) provided by my good friend Steven aka Rum Diaries around the interwebs. If you'd like to support this podcast please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Ardbeg Uigeadail. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleFeel free to follow along with a dram of this or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of this spirit. My tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Ardbeg Uigeadail (54.2% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: GoldSuggested texture: HighNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: PronouncedAroma characteristics: Peat, bonfire, charred wood logs, sultanas, overripe pears, dried lemon peel, salty rocks (coastal), beeswaxOther notes: The nose is a warming peat sensation, not harsh or sharp, but quite soft and warm. A lot of volume on the aromas, and also seems high in ABV. Bourbon cask, islay single malt?ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warming, mouth filling, High viscosityIntensity: Pronounced Flavor characteristics: Peat, bonfire, black peppercorns, cloves, hints of tar, lemon peel, pearsOther notes: Very dark and gloomy profile, more ashy than on the nose, but it maintains a good balance of the characteristics.Finish: Long and very complex (Peat, ash, pears)ABV: ~55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Peated Single Malt, Bourbon Cask, ~15 yearsIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Antiquary Blended Scotch Whisky & Strathclyde 27 year old Single Grain Whisky Rare Auld Duncan Taylor. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleFeel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Spirit A - Antiquary Blended Scotch Whisky (46% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeeColor: GoldSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Overripe sweet apples, grapes, vanilla, cinnamon, baked sugar crystals, fragrant, hints of toasted oakOther notes: Has an initial profile of a warm apple pie, and a vague hint of perfume at the back of that sweetness. The nose is quite dense and heavy. The sweet apple note turns a little bit sour after a while. Bourbon or brandy cask?ABV: ~46%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, warming, medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Overripe sweet apples, grapes, fragrant, oak, hints of black tea, cereal/malt.Other notes: Palate carry the aromas nicely, good balance of the different characteristics, the cereal note could mean a younger spirit (10 years) although the balance of the body could also suggest a bit longer maturation (15+ perhaps).Finish: Medium with some complexity (apples and cereal/malt)ABV: ~50%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Single malt, first fill bourbon cask, 10 years oldSpirit B - Strathclyde 27 year old Single Grain Whisky Rare Auld Duncan Taylor (53.5%) (Fully matured in Sherry Cask)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Light > mediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium > highNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Dates, baked apples, vanilla, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, molasses, marcipan, undefined smoke elementOther notes: A little bit more subdued on the characteristics than spirit A, but way more dense and dark on the overall profile. Wine or port cask?ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, mouth filling, medium > high viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Dates, raisins, brown sugar, molasses, roasted nuts, dried orange peelOther notes: Does not taste like a whisky, but it still smells like a single malt profile. Has more of a brandy profile, so could have some heavy cask influence like full maturation in a brandy cask. Could also be rum as I kept getting hints of molasses throughout, but feels more like a brandy profile on the palate.Finish: Medium to long and very complex (dates, orange peel, roasted nuts)ABV: ~50%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Single malt, full maturation in brandy cask, 10+ years.If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of Kalevala Small Batch Distilled Gin & Kyrö Koskue Small Batch Rye Gin. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleFeel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Spirit A - Kalevala Small Batch Distilled Gin (46.3% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: WaterwhiteColor: ColorlessSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Juniper, lime zest and pith, licorice root, hints of aniseed and cumin, mintOther notes: Has an earthiness to it, but also has a quite sharp and acidic citrus spike on that lime note. A mint leaf note appear after a while, almost like the leaf before you smack it to extract the oils. Quite a dry minty note.ABV: ~45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, low > medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Earthy, herbaceous, bitter lime pith, licorice root, aniseedOther notes: No juniper or other sweet/fruity notes on the palate, just very earthy and quite bitter.Finish: Short > medium with some complexity (lime pith and licorice root)ABV: 40%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: A dry ginSpirit B - Kyrö Koskue Small Batch Rye Gin (42.6% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: PaleColor: LemonSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Juniper, all-sorts licorice and gummy bears, star anise, sage, cloves, cardamom, black currant, beeswaxOther notes: Very sweet up front with those all-sorts licorice shining through quite a lot. Much less Juniper forward than spirit A. A light beeswax or honey note comes up after a bit.ABV: ~45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Watery, low viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: All-sorts licorice, sage, cloves, cardamomOther notes: Flavor profile is very aligned with the aroma profile, but it’s very thin in the mouth.Finish: Medium to long very complex (all-sorts licorice, sage, cloves) ABV: ~45%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: A dry barrel aged ginIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Old Weller Antique 107 & Old Weller Antique 107 La Maison Du Whisky Single Barrel. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleFeel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Spirit A - Old Weller Antique 107 (53.5% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Butterscotch, caramel, vanilla, coconut oil, charred oak, burnt toast with butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, dried orange peel, Gingerbread?Other notes: Very sweet and deep character straight out of the glass. Overall, just extremely pleasant and nicely balanced nose.ABV: Feels like 50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warming, moth filling, medium viscosityIntensity: Medium > pronouncedFlavor characteristics: Caramel, vanilla, orange oils, burnt toast, oak, cinnamon, black pepper cornOther notes: Typically I’m getting the bitter notes of cinnamon and pepper corn on the palate, and a lot of that sweetness from the nose has taken a step back on the profile.Finish: Medium > long very complex (black pepper corn, caramel, orange)ABV: Feels like 50%ConclusionQuality level: Very good > outstandingBlind guess: Old Weller Antique 107Spirit B - Old Weller Antique 107 La Maison Du Whisky Single Barrel (53.5% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: HighNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Butterscotch, caramel, vanilla, charred oak, burnt toast with butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, dried orange peel, Gingerbread?Other notes: Very similar nose as expected, but less sweet and more oak driven aroma profile than spirits A. Also feels very pleasant and well balanced.ABV: Feels like 55%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warm, mouth filling, high viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Caramel, vanilla, orange oils, burnt toast, oak, cinnamon, black pepper corn, licorice, leatherOther notes: More oak and more signs of age/maturation. Also feels less astringent on the bitter notes, more integrated and more sweeter notes coming through on the palate.Finish: Long and very complex (oak/char, licorice, cinnamon)ABV: Feels like 55%ConclusionQuality level: Very good > outstandingBlind guess: Old Weller Antique 107 La Maison Du Whisky Single BarrelIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Tormore 24 year Signatory Vintage Cask Strength Collection & Hazelburn 10 Single Malt Whisky Springbank Society. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleFeel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Spirit A - Tormore 24 year Signatory Vintage Cask Strength Collection (45.2% ABV) (Distilled 1992, Bottled 2017, Matured in Hogshead casks 5687 and 5696)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: GoldSuggested texture: Medium > highNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > pronouncedAroma characteristics: Toffee apples, pineapple, ginger ale, ripe bananas, vanilla pod, sultanas, fresh lemon peel, toasted oakOther notes: Quite sweet and floral on the nose. Feels like a first fill bourbon cask single malt in the 10 year rangeABV: 45%-50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, warming, medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Lemon sorbet, lemon peel, vanilla, underripe bananas, black pepper corn, toasted or dried oakOther notes: A little bit of tannins coming through. A bit “quick” but everything I’d expect from the nose came through but nothing else. Predictable & reliable.Finish: Short > medium with some complexity (Lemon peel and oak)ABV: 45%-50%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: First fill bourbon cask, Single malt, ~8 yearsSpirit B - Hazelburn 10 Single Malt Whisky Springbank Society (55.9% ABV) (Distilled 2007, Bottled 2018, Matured in refill sauternes hogsheads)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: PaleColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium > highNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: Medium > pronouncedAroma characteristics: Raisins, dates, cherries, sea salt, stone fruits, baked pears, light caramel, vanilla, dried orange peel, charred oak? Other notes: Darker and more dense nose than Spirit A with a whiff of smoke? Feels similar age-wise to Spirit A, but perhaps in a first fill PX cask which gives those dark sweet notes.ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, warming, medium viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Fresh pears, raisins, cherries, stone fruits, baked pears, dried orange peel, dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, charred oakOther notes: Feels like an evolution from the nose, lots of carry-though but also new elementsFinish: Long and very complex (cherries, fortified wine, oak, pear)ABV: 50%-55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Single malt, first fill sherry cask, 8-10 yearsIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Helsinki Distilling Company Rye Malt Whiskey & Teerenpeli Savu Single Malt Whisky. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Spirit A - Helsinki Distilling Company Rye Malt Whiskey (47.5% ABV) (Matured for at least 3 years in 200 litre virgin American oak with a char level #3.)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: GoldSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: PronouncedAroma characteristics: Fresh pears, fresh apricot, elderflower, vanilla, sultanas, honey melon, dried lemon peel Other notes: Very fresh and fruit forward up front but has a light peat/earthy feel to it. No obvious aromas from maturation (oak), but has a lot of very pronounced aromas. Perhaps an extended fermentation period or some interesting grains (or grain combination). Could be a “dirty malt” with heads and tails not removed from the first distillation. Could also be sweet wine cask finished?ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, warming, medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Pear, elderflower, rye bread, toast, malted grain, oak, cloves, licorice, Other notes: Feels young as not that much aroma came through but has a beautiful evolution into a quite complex palate with a lot more dark and more bitter notes from the grain and even some of that oak maturation.Finish: Long and very complex (oak, licorice, cloves)ABV: ~50%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Rye whisky with high barley malt. 3-4 yearsSpirit B - Teerenpeli Savu Single Malt Whisky (43% ABV) (Age unknown, matured in 80% bourbon and 20% Pedro Ximinez sherry casks)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: LemonSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: PronouncedAroma characteristics: Peat (not coastal but floral and herbal), baked apples, vanilla, sultanas, rye bread, toasted oak, freshly squeezed orange and dried orange peel Other notes: Peat jumped out but overall it’s a simpler and more subdued nose than Spirit A. Also, very little maturation hints, so perhaps refill bourbon cask?ABV: ~45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky and watery, low viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Peat, malt, burnt apples, ryvita, dried orange peel, Other notes: Very soft profile and probably bottom end of ABV. Finish: Medium with some complexity (peat and apples)ABV: 40%-45%ConclusionQuality level: Very good > outstandingBlind guess: Peated single malt. 6+ yearsIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Barrell Bourbon Infinity Project & Westland Garryana American Single Malt Whiskey. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can be found below:Spirit A - Barrell Bourbon Infinity Project (59.65% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: GoldSuggested texture: HighNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Brown sugar, butterscotch, vanilla, hints of fresh apples, dried orange peel, toasted white bread (wheat?), butter, nutmeg, lightly charred oakOther notes: Very quiet and dry nose, profile feels hidden. Ethanol sharpness is peaking through which could mean higher ABV which could be masking the aromas, or it could mean an older spirit where the aromas are very integrated (or both).ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warming, mouth filling, medium > high viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Brown sugar, baked apples, vanilla, dark chocolate, burnt toast, butter, cinnamonOther notes: Palate is much darker and complex than the more sweet nose aromas. Feels like most of the aromas and flavors are from the barrel, and not the distilled spirit.Finish: Long very complex (Oak, char, dark chocolate)ABV: 55%-60%ConclusionQuality level: Very good > OutstandingBlind guess: Low Rye mash bill Bourbon, >10 years, Heavily Charred barrelsSpirit B - Westland Garryana American Single Malt Whiskey (56.2% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Deep Color: GoldSuggested texture: MediumNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: PronouncedAroma characteristics: Fresh lemon peel, caramelized apples, apple cider, sultanas, sea salt, hints of peat(?), red grapes, other red berries?Other notes: Very powerful nose with very clear aromas and a mix of very fresh and very sharp notes. Nose gets darker and more deep/complex as it opens up and warms up. Wine/fortified wine cask?ABV: ~55%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warming, mouth filling, medium > high viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Caramelized apples, grated lemon peel, cloves, raisins, fortified wine, stewed fruits/berriesOther notes: The palate revealed more of the darker notes that came out with heating up the spirit on the nose. Feels very aromatic and almost herbal on the palate.Finish: Long and very complex (apples, oak, fortified wine) ABV: ~55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Single Malt, Red Wine or Fortified wine cask, 10-12 yearsIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the E.H. Taylor Four Grain Bourbon 2018 & Michter's 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey 2018. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - E.H. Taylor Four Grain Bourbon 2018 (50% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium > highNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > pronouncedAroma characteristics: Butterscotch, Ginger bread, vanilla cream, caramelized apple, all spice, cloves, dried apricots, dried orange peel, pecan nuts, toasted/dry oakOther notes: Has a dusty/dry sensation to it. Like a toasted oak/sun dried oak type sensation. Very little char sensation on the palate but there was the burnt sugar note.ABV: ~55%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warming, mouth filling, Medium > high viscosity Intensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Oak, burnt toast, all spice, cloves, black pepper corn, licorice, leather, hints of vanilla and caramelized apples + some floral notes after water addedOther notes: Lost a bit of the dried fruit notes, but gained the barrel aging notes much more clearly.Finish: Long and complex (Oak, cloves, licorice)ABV: ~55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Bourbon, ~10 years Spirit B - Michter's 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey 2018 (46.4% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium > highNoseCondition: Clean Intensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Oak, sweet corn, caramel, baked apples, pie crust, leather, ground cinnamon, crushed cloves, nail varnishOther notes: More oak, and has a sharp note at the end of the nosing like a high ethanol spike. Could mean a younger whiskey, but not sure.ABV: ~55%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Watery, low > medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Oak, leather, cloves, black pepper corn, very little hint on those baked apples + sweetness grows with waterOther notes: All the spice and burn sits on the tongue, doesn’t follow through. Feels like higher ABV but doesn’t carry the burn, just more tongue swelling.Finish: Medium with some complexity (Oak and black pepper corn)ABV: ~60%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: Bourbon, younger than spirit AIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the J.P. Wiser's Dissertation Canadian Whisky and Old Forester 1920 Bourbon. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you'd like to support this podcast and get access to the behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - J.P. Wiser's Dissertation (46.1% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: GoldSuggested texture: Medium > highNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Ginger bread, vanilla, toffee/stroopwafels, chocolate orange, fresh apricots, lemongrass, rye grain, toasted oakOther notes: A very fresh aroma character, feels like summer in a glass. Not getting much on the aging side, just some of that toasted oakABV: 45%-50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Light, delicate, medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Rye grain, fresh ginger, vanilla, lemon grass, slightly burnt toast, oak, black pepper cornOther notes: All the notes are very harmonized which could suggest some age, but on the other hand the rye grain is quite pronounced so could be a young rye too. The color would suggest younger OR that it’s aged at the bottom of the rickhouse if in the US, or it could mean it’s from a colder climate like Canada.Finish: Medium and very complex (Rye grain, grassy note, oak, black pepper)ABV: 40%~45% ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Rye WhiskeySpirit B - Old Forester 1920 (57.5% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: HighNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Butterscotch, werthers original, brown sugar, vanilla ice cream, cinnamon, cloves, lightly charred oak, leather, raisins, black cherries Other notes: Dark and wintery nose compared to the very summery nose on spirit AABV: 50%-55%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, mouth filling, medium viscosityIntensity: Medium > pronouncedFlavor characteristics: Caramel, brown sugar, black cherries, cinnamon, cloves, burnt toast, raisins, leather Other notes: Feels like this has much more age than spirit A. More oak and char characteristics are coming through. Also, the ethanol is showing up and give a little bit of tongue burn, so the ABV should be higher than spirit A.Finish: Long and very complex (Caramel, cloves, oak, cherries)ABV: 50%-55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: BourbonIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Kentucky Peerless Rye Whiskey & Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye Whisky. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you're interested in behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Kentucky Peerless Rye Whiskey (54% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: High viscosityNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Sweetcorn, toffee, vanilla, honey, fresh orange peel, hints of malt, cinnamon, cloves, hints of gingerbread, dry toasted oak, floral notesOther notes: A lot of aromas present. Not a lot of ethanol on the nose, feels quite soft but yet very clear aromas. Has a dryness to it. Classic bourbon characteristics.ABV: 45%-50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, warming, high viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Caramel, peppercorn, cinnamon, cloves, gingerbread, coffee beans, dried orange peel, burnt toast, charred oak, floral/fragrant.Other notes: Has a little bit of burn going downFinish: Long and complex (cloves, coffee beans, orange peel, floral/fragrant)ABV: ~55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: High rye bourbon, 8-10 years, maybe Four RosesSpirit B - Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye Whisky (45% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: GoldSuggested texture: Medium viscosityNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Fresh lemon peel, over-ripe bananas, vanilla, butterscotch, gummybears, gingerbread, hints of fresh grass Other notes: Completely different nose than Spirit A. Much sweeter in profile and more delicate aromas (subdued). Could be a wheated whiskey, but has a few Rye characteristics as well.ABV: ~45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, sweet, Light > medium viscosityIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Fresh ginger, ripe bananas (gummybears), vanilla, fresh grass, honey, fresh lemon peel, hints of fresh pear, floral/fragrant, hints or oak/char.Other notes: Much sweeter and lighter ABV profile than Spirit A. A little bitterness coming through at the end, but it remains quite sweet/simple in a sense that most flavors are very similar and could benefit from some more range.Finish: Medium with some complexity (banana, oak)ABV: ~45%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: Rye whiskey, 3-4 yearsIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Berry Bros. & Rudd 19 year Caroni Rum & SpringBank Society 15 year Port Barrel. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you're interested in behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Berry Bros. & Rudd 19 year Caroni Rum (55% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium viscosity NoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Molasses, over-ripe banana, burnt pineapple, sulphur, blood orange/bitter orange, pine cones, cinnamon, vanilla beans, charred oakOther notes: There’s a strong Rum sensation, but also has some bourbon characteristics, but I’m not getting the sense of corn, rye, or wheat of the nose.ABV: >50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, warming, medium viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: molasses, over-ripe banana, burnt pineapple, sherry, liquorice, nail varnish, charred oakOther notes: Nose opened up with more nail varnish notesFinish: Long with some complexity (molasses, over-ripe bananas, char)ABV: >60%ConclusionQuality level: Very good > outstandingBlind guess: Barrel proof, pot still or pot and column blend, molasses rumSpirit B - SpringBank Society 15 year Port Barrel (56.2% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Light > mediumNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Soft peat, fresh sweet apples, sultanas, melted butter on toast, burnt brown sugar, hints of sea salt, stone fruits, dried lemon peel, fresh honey melon Other notes: ABV is quite sharp on the nose when you get into the glass, but quite soft from a distance. ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, a bit watery, light viscosityIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Peat, fresh sweet apples, burnt toast, sea salt, cracked black pepper, cloves, lemon peel, oats and malt grainsOther notes: Picked up the grain note which I wasn’t able to on the noseFinish: Long and very complex (light peat, apples, burnt toast)ABV: ~55%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Island or coastal single malt scotch, older than 12 yearsIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the Prizefight Irish Whiskey & Glendalough 10 Year Black Pitts Porter Irish Whiskey. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you're interested in behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Prizefight Irish Whiskey (43% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: LemonSuggested texture: High viscosityNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Baked pear, fresh apples, vanilla, porridge, fresh lemon peel and fresh apricots. Light floral notes.Other notes: Very light and soft nose, has a hint of a harsh note underneath the soft and fruity notes, almost a hint of nail varnish.ABV: 40%-45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Watery, silky, light viscosityIntensity: Light > mediumFlavor characteristics: Baked pear, Porridge, licorice, pepper corns, burnt toast, light toasted oak notesOther notes: Much simpler than the nose, but starting to show some maturation flavors. The nail varnish on the nose has softened and is a bit more like a sensation of oak.Finish: Short to medium finish with some complexity (licorice, oak)ABV: 40%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: Irish blended whiskeySpirit B - Glendalough 10 Year Black Pitts Porter Irish Whiskey (46% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Medium Color: GoldSuggested texture: Light > mediumNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Baked apples, sultanas, dried lemon peel, dried apricots, dry grassOther notes: Light nose, but has more pronounced notes than Spirit A. Feels dry and almost dusty compared to the freshness of spirit A.ABV: 45%-50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Watery, silky, light viscosityIntensity: Medium > pronouncedFlavor characteristics: Baked apples, maltesers, sultanas, oak, burnt toast, peppercorn Other notes: Has a slight undefined nuttyness, and starting to nose some leather after a while. So much more powerful than Spirit A but still has the softness of an Irish whiskey. Potentially a single malt, or single pot still. Likely older than spirit A. Finish: Medium > long very complex (Apples, char, peppercorn)ABV: 45%ConclusionQuality level: Very good > outstandingBlind guess: Irish single pot stillIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a blind tasting of the FEW Cask Strength Bourbon picked by the British Bourbon Society and Jack Daniels Barrel Strength. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you're interested in behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - FEW Cask Strength Bourbon (BBS Pick) (64.38% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Caramel, cinnamon, all spice, vanilla, rye bread, floral notes, dried orange peel, ripe banana, some oak, and nail varnish. Minty/menthol undertones.Other notes: ABV comes out of the glass quite sharp. There’s oak but not a lot of char would suggest a younger maturation. Smells like a classic bourbon.ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Warming, silky, medium viscosityIntensity: Medium > pronouncedFlavor characteristics: Caramel, oak, burnt toast, ripe bananas, dried orange peel, black peppercornOther notes: Quite bitter on the palate at first, some caramel sweetness followsFinish: Long with some complexity (caramel, burnt toast)ABV: 50-55%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: Larger producer Bourbon 6-8 years, not cask finishedSpirit B - Jack Daniel's Barrel Strength (64.5% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Light > medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Quiet nose, dry leather, all spice, peppercorn, nutmeg, dried hazelnuts, burnt sugar, dried orange peelOther notes: Subdued aromas are all wrapped in an earthy sensation. Bourbon nose, but something else. Perhaps a vintage bottle.ABV:

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a side-by-side vertical blind tasting of the Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey from 2015 and 2017. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you're interested in behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on my new Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey 2015 (63.45% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > pronouncedAroma characteristics: Rye grain, gingerbread, burnt sugar, vanilla, peanut brittle, marshmellows, fresh cut grass, dried apricots, dried orange peel, oak, clovesOther notes: ABV hits your nostrils pretty heavily along with very strong Rye grain and ginger notesABV: >60%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, very oilyIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Rye grain, ginger spice, peanut brittle, grassy, dried apricots, cracked black pepper, burnt toast, char, oak, cloves, leatherOther notes: Even with 10 drops of water in 25ml pour the ABV kicks up an alcohol stormFinish: Long and very complex (grain, pepper and char)ABV: >60%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: 2015Spirit B - Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey 2017 (63.60% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Rye grain, caramel, gingerbread, vanilla, cinnamon, dried orange peel, fresh cut grass, oak, tanninsOther notes: This has a darker and more earthy aroma than spirit AABV: >60%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, medium oilyIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Rye grain, caramel, ginger bread, grassy, cinnamon, toasted oak, leatherOther notes: Also 10 drops of water, and also kicks up an alcohol storm on the palateFinish: Long and very complex (grain, ginger and char)ABV: >60%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: 2017If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast I'm doing a shoot-out blind tasting of the Weller 12 Bourbon and the Old Weller Antique 107 Bourbon. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. If you're interested in behind the scenes video recordings from this episode, please join me on my new Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/spiritspeopleMy tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Weller 12 Bourbon (45% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Brown sugar, caramel, vanilla, baked apples, cherry compote, soft white bread, cinnamon, hints of oakOther notes: Larger nosings will give off some ethanol hits, suggesting a higher proof, however it’s a very soft nose overall where all the aromas tend to blend in together.ABV: 53.5%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Soft and silkyIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: A lot more oak and some char coming on the palate than on the nose. Dark chocolate, black pepper, cinnamon, baked apples still coming through.Other notes: Feels lighter on the palate than on the nose. This is more likely the Weller 12.Finish: Medium > long, with some complexity. Oak and black pepper, hints of char and leatherABV: outstandingBlind guess: Weller 12Spirit B - Old Weller Antique 107 Bourbon (53.5% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Brown sugar, caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, oak, dried orange peel, apple pie pie crust Other notes: Softer and more delicate nose than spirit A, but can still give off some ethanol with a big breath in. Also a very soft nose.ABV: 45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Soft and mouth fillingIntensity: Medium > pronouncedFlavor characteristics: Oak, peppercorn, char/burnt toast, caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, leather, cherriesOther notes: Much sharper on the palate and more bitterness than on the nose. Feels younger than Spirit A.Finish: Medium with some complexity. Oak, leather ABV: >50%ConclusionQuality level: Very GoodBlind guess: Weller Antique 107If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the Ardbeg 10 Scotch Single Malt Whisky & Mezcal Verde Momento. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Ardbeg 10 Scotch Single Malt Whisky (% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: PaleColor: LemonSuggested texture: Thick oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Pronounced > mediumAroma characteristics: Peat, dried lemon peel, sea salt, seaweed Other notes: Classic Islay scotch noseABV: ~45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, mouthfilling, a little watery/thinIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Peat, malt bread, flour, cloves, peppercorns, lemon peel, sultanas, ripe red apples, seaweed, sea salt Other notes: Peaty and briney palate at lower ABVFinish: Long with some complexity (peat and cloves)ABV: ~45%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Ardbeg 10Spirit B - Mezcal Verde Momento (% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Water-whiteColor: ColorlessSuggested texture: Light-medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Agave, campfire, green olives, charred green bell peppersOther notes: Classic Mezcal noseABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, mouthfilling, a little watery/thinIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Agave, charred wood, charred green bell peppers, lime zest, hints of apricots?Other notes: Starts quite smoky then becomes light and sweet, and finally a bit asheyFinish: Long with some complexity (Agave and ash) ABV: ~50%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Artisanal Mezcal 100% AgaveIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the SangSom Special Rum & St. George Botanivore Gin. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - SangSom Special Rum (40% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: GoldSuggested texture: Thick oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Brown sugar, bananas, fresh orange peelOther notes: Light spirit, and very simple nose, likely a RumABV: ~40% PalateSweetness: Off-dry > mediumTexture: Watery, lightIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Brown sugar, peppercorn, orange peelOther notes: One-dimensional, and lack of oak/char on the nose and the palate would suggest added color too.Finish: Short > Medium simple finish with peppercorn bitternessABV: ~40%ConclusionQuality level: GoodBlind guess: Affordable mixing rumSpirit B - St. George's Botanivore Gin (45%)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Water-whiteColor: ColorlessSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > lightAroma characteristics: Juniper berries, black currant, fresh lemon peel, elderflowerOther notes: Very refreshing and silky noseABV: ~40%PalateSweetness: Off-dryTexture: Silky, wateryIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Juniper berries, black currant, lemon peel, peppercorn, all spice, floral notes.Other notes: Very silky and soft in the mouth, and became a bit floral after a little while.Finish: Medium with some complexity of juniper and peppercornABV: ~40%ConclusionQuality level: Very goodBlind guess: GinIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the Angel's Envy Rum Cask Finished Rye Whiskey & Michter's Toasted Barrel Finished Rye Whiskey. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Angel's Envy Rum Cask Finished Rye (50% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: DeepColor: GoldSuggested texture: Thick oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > PronouncedAroma characteristics: Brown sugar, caramelized pear, cinnamon, gingerbread, pineapple, honey, sweetcorn, vanilla, lemon drizzle, hints of aniseed, hints of oak and leatherOther notes: A very sweet nose with a strange aniseed-like note floating in the background. Most likely an American Rye Whiskey, but there are a few elements that lean towards a rum profile as well. Smells like a desert.ABV: ~55%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, warming, medium oilyIntensity: Medium > PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Rye bread, ginger, lemon peel, peppercorn/aniseed, leatherOther notes: Rye grain seems to be coming through, so leaning towards a Rye Whiskey over the Rum.Finish: Long and very complex carrying rye grain, lemon and oakConclusionQuality level: Very Good > OutstandingBlind guess: American or Canadian Rye WhiskeySpirit B - Michter's Toasted Barrel Finished Rye (54% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Butterscotch, werthers original, vanilla, dried orange peel, cloves, toasted oak, violets, lavender, fragrant with hints of ginger.Other notes: Feels like a high ABV, quite floral all around the nose. Likely an American Whiskey, High Rye Bourbon, or Rye Whiskey.ABV: ~60%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filling, warming, medium oilyIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Oak, burnt toast (char), caramel, vanilla, cloves, peppercorn, all spice, dark chocolate, coffee beans, leather, lavenderOther notes: Very complex palate, a lot of flavors in balance with each other and lots of links between the nose and the palateFinish: Long and very complex with oak, cloves, dark chocolate and lavenderABV: ~65%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: American High Rye BourbonIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the Vestal Vodka Appelation Pomorze 2013 & Montelobos Mezcal Joven 100% Espadin. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Vodka Appelation Pomorze 2013 (40% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: PaleColor: LemonSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Agave?, Fresh green bell peppers, toasted wood, dried lemon peel, hints of fresh pear, hints of perfumeOther notes: Undefined category, could be a light Tequila or Mezcal, but also a craft vodka of sortsABV: 45%-50% (high 40’s)PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Silky, Creamy, WateryIntensity: LightFlavor characteristics: Hints of dried oak, peppercorn, floral perfumeFinish: Short, neutral (Ethanol finish)ABV: ~45%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Oak barrelled vodkaSpirit B - Montelobos Mezcal Joven 100% EspadinAppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Water-whiteColor: ColorlessSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Agave?, cardamom, seaweed, ripe red apple, basil, charred wood Other notes: Heavy on the alcohol sharpness at firstABV: 40%-45% (low 40’s)PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Smooth, Mouth fillingIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Agave, red apples, charred bell peppers, black peppercorns, cardamom, basil, wood fire, nail polish, burnt orange peel, leatherFinish: Long, very complex (many of the flavors carry on)ABV: ~45%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Montelobos Mezcal EspadinIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the Braunstein Danica Single Malt Whisky Batch 2014-1 and Westland American Single Malt Whisky, La Maison Du Whisky 60th Anniversary Edition. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Braunstein Danica Single Malt Whisky Batch 2014-1 (42% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: GoldSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > lightAroma characteristics: Dried lemon peel, fresh red apples, wood polish, hints of burnt sugar, vanilla, dried flowers, and dried grapes, slight maltinessOther notes: First a very light floral nose, however very hard to pickout any clear aromas except the wood polishABV: ~45%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Smooth, watery Intensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Peppercorn, dark chocolate, oak, burnt toast, digestive biscuits Other notes: Very dark palate compared to the nose which had more fruity notes. Feels a bit immature overall, balance seems off between nose and palate.Finish: Medium, simple > some complexity (mostly burnt toast)ABV: ~45% ConclusionQuality level: GoodBlind guess: Malt whisky, world whiskySpirit B - Westland American Single Malt Whisky, La Maison Du Whisky 60th Anniversary Edition (54.4% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: LightColor: AmberSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Fresh pears, dates, vanilla, hints of smoke/peat, lemon, stone fruits, sea saltOther notes: Nose is fresh and dark at the same time. Very pleasant and complex.ABV: ~50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth filing, warmingIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Fresh pears, lemon, stone fruits, maltesers, cloves, hints of oak and charOther notes: Quite malty on the palate, but very citrus fresh at the same time. Feels like a well balanced and complex spirit.Finish: Long, very complexity (citrus, oak, maltesers) ABV: ~50%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Malt whiskey, potentially a blend from large malt whisky regionIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople

In this episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the Mezcal Alipus Santa Ana Del Rio and Raymond Ragnaud Vieille Reserve Cognac. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Mezcal Alipus Santa Ana Del Rio (47.6% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: Water-whiteColor: ColorlessSuggested texture: Medium oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > PronouncedAroma characteristics: Agave, cilantro, fresh lemon peel, green olives, charred green bell peppers, smoked fishOther notes: A citrus fruit freshness with very savory aromasABV: < 50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Smooth, Mouth fillingIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Char, green bell peppers, smoked fish, peppercornOther notes: Great balance from nose to finish, and many flavors persist through the finishFinish: Long finish, very complexABV: < 50%ConclusionQuality level: OutstandingBlind guess: Mezcal Verde, 100% AgaveSpirit B - Raymond Ragnaud Vielle Reserve Cognac (41% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: PaleColor: AmberSuggested texture: Very oilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Grapes, Raisin, over ripe red apples, grated almonds, grated orange zest (zing), a bit floral Other notes: Very sweet on the nose, almost overpowering, suggests added sugarABV: > 50%PalateSweetness: Dry > Odd-dryTexture: Smooth, semi mouth fillingIntensity: MediumFlavor characteristics: Grapes, ripe apples apples, almonds, hints of char, hints of leatherFinish: Medium, some complexityABV: < 50%ConclusionQuality level: Very GoodBlind guess: VSOP/Napoleon Cognac (

In this very first episode of the Spirits Blind Tasting podcast, I'm doing a blind tasting of the Redbreast 12 year Irish whiskey and Wild Turkey Master's Keep Decades bourbon. Feel free to follow along with a dram of any of these or any other spirit you enjoy as I try to uncover the aromas and flavors of these 2 spirits. My tasting notes from this episode can also be found below:Spirit A - Redbreast 12 year Irish whiskey (40% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: PaleColor: AmberSuggested texture: ThinNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: Medium > LightAroma characteristics: Caramelized apple, Vanilla, Lemon, Sultanas, Buttery Toast, Cereal NotesABV: < 50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Watery, SpicyIntensity: Light > MediumFlavor characteristics: Peppercorn (side of tongue), All spice, malty, digestive biscuits, burnt toastFinish: Short > Medium, Some complexity (Mostly peppercorn bitterness) ABV: < 50%ConclusionQuality level: Very GoodBlind guess: Irish or Japanese WhiskySpirit B - Wild Turkey Master's Keep Decades bourbon (52% ABV)AppearanceClarity: ClearIntensity: MediumColor: AmberSuggested texture: OilyNoseCondition: CleanIntensity: MediumAroma characteristics: Burnt sugar, Oak, Leather, Vanilla, Dried Orange Peel, Ripe Apricot, Almonds/MarzipanABV: > 50%PalateSweetness: DryTexture: Mouth Filling, WarmingIntensity: PronouncedFlavor characteristics: Oak, Char, Burnt Toast, Vanilla, Roasted Almonds Finish: Long, Some complexity (Char and Leather)ABV: > 60%ConclusionQuality level: Very Good > OutstandingBlind guess: Barrel Strength BourbonIf you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at any time on Instagram @spiritspeople