Benchmark Full Proof

Nov 10

Benchmark Full Proof

What can I say…I’m a high proof lover, and this was no exception. Of the 6-part vertical, this was my favorite, with the bottled-in-bond coming in second. The “Full Proof” (like with Barton’s 1792) refers to the maximum proof at which distillate can be barreled in the US, not to be confused with barrel strength/cask strength, barrel proof, or similar terms.

Buffalo Trace Mashbill #1 (Low-Rye)

62.5% ABV/125 Proof

NAS

Eye: Amber-honey, thin rims and medium legs.

Nose: Spice drop candies, fruity, especially orchard and stone fruits. Spiced chocolate develops into Mexican hot chocolate.

Palate: Bourbon, pure BT profile. Cherries, chocolate, tip-of-tongue heat that rolls over the tongue. Mouthfeel is oily, creamy, and very filling, with spice that keeps developing but never detracts from the flavors.

Finish: Finish keeps the spiced chocolate going, tingle continues for quite awhile - mouthwatering.

Overall: The full proof doesn’t disappoint and is definitely my favorite of the vertical (although the SiB and BiB both put up good showings).

Rating: 6.5

10 | Insurpassable | Nothing Else Comes Close (Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel)

9 | Incredible | Extraordinary (GTS, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B518 and B520)

8 | Excellent | Exceptional (12+YO MGP Bourbon, Highland Park Single Barrels)

7 | Great | Well above average (Blanton’s Original, Old Weller Antique, Booker’s)

6 | Very Good | Better than average (Four Roses Small Batch Select, Knob Creek 14+ YO Picks)

5 | Good | Good, solid, ordinary (Elijah Craig Small Batch, Buffalo Trace, Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond)

4 | Sub-par | Many things I’d rather have (A.D. Laws Four Grain, Compass Box “Oak Cross”)

3 | Bad | Flawed (Iron Smoke Bourbon, Balcones)

2 | Poor | Forced myself to drink it (Buckshee Bourbon and Rye)