January 2013: Bourbon

 

Andrea and Dylan hosted a Bourbon tasting on 26 January 2013. We were impresssed at the selection that they were able to gather for us. Bourbon in SA can extend past JAck Daniels and Jim Beam.

 

On the table were cheese platters with strong and smokey cheeses, meant to compliment the bourbon experience. It was a great idea to have some snacks as it turned out to be a long day for many.

 

Dylan talked us through the Bourbon process and had a useful diagram to show us. We had a debatate as to why Jack Daniel's wasn't a bourbon. In the end Wikipedia settled the debate - Jack Daniels have chosen not to be called a bourbon.

 

We started off with Evan Williams - On the nose it's strong notes of leather polish, toffee, golden syrup and vanilla. A sharp taste that warms as it lingers, a strong vanilla and toffee flavour. Over ice the sweetness mellow.s

 

Jim Beam - the most well known of our tasting had a strong straw nose. We were taken back to the farm with notes of fresh cut hay interlaced with vanilla tones. A strong spciy starter with a sweet vanilla linger. 

Buffalo trace - On the nose it's strong sherry and oak with a vanilla and mint finish. Mixed reviews from the club as the tasted the heavy winter spices and stewed fruit. Interesting development in the flavour as we paired Buffalo Trace with the cheese

 

 Eagle Rare 10yr old - the most popular bottle in terms of looks - more modern and less manly. A nose described as "Christmas" (brandy pudding, stewed fruit, spice) with hints of leather and orange. The flavour of orange marmalade and spicy citrus develops as you sip and opens up with ice.

 Blanton's Gold - starts with an almost acetone nose but transforms into a floral, fruity nose. The first taste is of burnt sugar and toffee. With ice and left to unfold, it grows into an oaky flavour.