Monday Booze Recommendation - the Happy New Year/Rapid-Fire edition

As a lush man known for appreciating the finer things, spirits are a major player in my holidays. In that spirit, here is a quick rundown of several whiskies I’ve either enjoyed or been given this holiday season. Some have been previously reviewed, but I’m too busy enjoying the last in the list to dig up the links.

Jim Beam Black
A surprising bourbon, especially for anyone who has imbibed copious amounts of standard Beam while in college. Black doesn’t have that standard Beam flavor inherent in even the pricier labels such as Basil Hayden. But, it’s also not the most flavorful bourbon. In the glass, it’s fine. In a cocktail, even something such as a Manhattan, it tends to fade into the background.

Knob Creek
A bourbon that tends to bring out strong opinions. As a higher-proof bourbon, it’s stout. If you enjoy a little burn, Knob Creek delivers. Its flavor is substantial enough to stand out in any cocktail and its lack of sweetness makes it a good candidate for an Old Fashioned.

Woodford Reserve
Once my favorite, Woodford has notes of vanilla and caramel. It also has a fairly hot alcohol flavor that, when poured neat, offers a slight whang. It’s another good candidate for classic cocktails.

Four Roses Small Batch
Very smooth and flavorful. Mixed from four bourbons, it has a purposeful oaky sweetness to it. Perfect on the rocks.

Blanton’s Single Barrel
Recommended by Alkibiades, Blanton’s is perhaps the best whiskey I’ve ever tasted. Rich and smooth, it tastes like a glass of mildly-sweet smoked caramel. Don’t adulterate it; just pour it and add a few drops of water to release the flavor.

With 2013 upon us, now is the time for resolutions. I suggest you resolve to better your epicurean sensibilities. Fine bourbon is an excellent way to accomplish that goal.

May the New Year grant you 
the eye of a blacksmith on a nail 
the good humor of a girl at a dance 
the strong hand of a priest on his parish.

 

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