It’s an odd-numbered day, so it must be time for another bourbon…
Today we have something called Big Horn Bourbon Whiskey. The last two words seem a little redundant; they remind me of the irritating phrase “cash money.” Or “50 percent off discount.” Or “a Cadillac car.” You get my point.
Anyway, this Big Horn Bourbon (Whiskey) comes from a place called Willie’s Distillery, in Ennis, Montana. None of that sounds reassuring. The bourbon has claimed a few awards, which are featured prominently on the website. But they were received a decade ago; what have you done for me lately? Here’s their sales pitch:
“Bighorn Bourbon is a superior blend of fine bourbons of varying ages. [Editor’s note: I take this to mean most of the component spirits are younger than my unborn grandson.] Named for the majestic Rocky Mountain Bighorn Ram, this smooth spirit is unbeatable on the rocks but also mixes perfectly in your favorite whiskey cocktail or in one of our signature drinks below.”
And so, with trepidation, let’s do our tasting.
Appearance: It’s lighter than most bourbons we’ve tasted so far, perhaps owing to the (presumably) short time in the barrel. I’d say it’s the color of your standard commercial jet fuel.
Aroma: Inoffensive, even pleasant. It’s the smell of unseasoned microwave popcorn doused with lots of olive oil.
Taste: All together now: “Steve was right.” This stuff is way too young to be a proper bourbon. It tastes like moonshine. There’s no depth, no character. Just a lot of corn flavor, with an alcohol burn.
Finish: Your esophagus will be. Finished, that is.
Bottom Line: Some of you may assume I’m making this sound worse than it is for dramatic effect. And you would be wrong.
Chasing Phantoms 