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This review is based on the remaining 1/4 of my bottle of Barrel Dovetail. I have to admit I am a little bit biased because I seem to gravitate to all of Barrell’s finished Whiskeys. Dovetail has been one of my top three favorite whiskeys as of this review. Anyway here are the details of my review. You'll see that my final rating is higher than the average of my individual category ratings. That's because the palate of this whiskey is exceptional.
Rating: 88
| Nose |
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| Palate |
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| Finish |
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| Uniqueness |
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| Value |
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Ratings breakdown based on a 100 point scale.
- 90-100 Exceptional
- 80-89 Very Good
- 70-79 Average
- 60-69 Below Average
- 50-60 Drain Pour
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Detailed Tasting Notes
Nose Review - Rating: 87
There is a very traditional bourbon caramel and vanilla nose with a sweet dried fruit feel. Of course, this is not a bourbon. The ethanol is definitely distinguishable, but it does not really take away then the nose. However, if you let the glass sit for a minute after pouring, the ethanol dissipates. This mash bill seems different from Seagrass and Armida because I do not sense nearly as much rye in the aroma. Seems like a blend of straight ryes and bourbons.
Palate Review - Rating: 92
The palate is really where Dovetail takes off and distinguishes itself. Unlike Barrell’s other finished whiskeys, this has a traditional bourbon and molasses undercurrent below the rye foundation. It is thick, chewy, spicy, and rich. I would say it has more than a medium viscosity with a strong buttery feel. The rye flavor is clearly distinguishable in some of Barrell's other finished whiskeys, this is no exception. However, the sweetness overrides the spice in a perfect blend. I would love to know what the mash bill is for Dovetail. This has an exceptional high-rye bourbon feel.
Finish Review - Rating: 88
The finish is exceptional. It is long and hot; yet not as hot as its 124.34 proof. Again, I get toys full rich feel on the finish.
Uniqueness Review - Rating: 87
Barrell’s other finished whiskeys; Seagrass and Armida are more unique than Dovetail. However, they are not better whiskeys. Having said this, the outstanding flavor of it allows me to give Dovetail this uniqueness rating.
Value Review - Rating: 85
At $79.99, Barrell Dovetail is right where it should be. That says a lot since it’s in a premium Bourbon price range.
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Smell IS taste. I am just a guy who has been hit with the bourbon bug and who has come to the conclusion that life is too short to drink average tasting bourbons. Go Gators!
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