A. Smith Bowman
A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength (Batch 3) 135.1 Proof
Nine years in the barrel have cultivated an extraordinary depth within this small batch, cask strength Virginia straight bourbon. Copper distilled for exceptional purity and flavor, Batch #3 offers a profound and complex drinking experience. This is a bourbon for discerning palates, showcasing the pinnacle of Virginia craftsmanship and a testament to patient aging.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A powerful yet inviting nose, bursting with rich caramel and toasted vanilla bean. Hints of dark cherry and dried apricot mingle with baking spices - cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove. A subtle underlying oak char and a whisper of leather suggest its considerable age and proof.
Palate: The palate immediately delivers a robust explosion of flavor, maintaining remarkable balance despite its high proof. Sweetness arrives first with sticky toffee pudding, brown sugar, and maple syrup, quickly followed by a wave of warming spices. Notes of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a delightful tingle from the rye spice emerge. The copper distillation technique likely contributes to a clean, yet rich mouthfeel.
Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and satisfying, leaving a warm, lingering embrace of sweet oak, charred vanilla, and a complex interplay of spice. A pleasant tannic grip provides structure, while residual notes of dried fruit and a faint hint of tobacco smoke slowly fade, inviting another sip.