George Remus Bourbon was not a bourbon that was on my radar to review. However, I had to purchase it to get Remus Repeal Reserve V, which was excellent. So, this has been sitting in my cabinet for months.
Nose
Looking at the color, I am assuming that it is a little thin. Initially, the nose seemed to suggest that as well. Very mild traditional bourbon notes. The typical caramel and vanilla with a bit of ethanol. After letting the glass sit for a minute, the nose turns to unexpected cinnamon spice. The cinnamon spice seems to dominate from here forward, although there is a bit of caramel sweetness behind it which comes to the front from time to time. There are many bourbons with this type of profile, so there isn’t much unique about the nose. However, if you are looking for a traditional bourbon aroma, Remus is it. The remarkable thing is that the nose does not fade; its aroma is uniform throughout the tasting.
Palate
The first taste was a little salty and sweet, with a spicy finish. The proof of George Remus is 94, and it seems to drink precisely that. It’s good to taste a “bottom shelf” bourbon that is not rough around the edges. Unfortunately, there is no creaminess or richness on the palate. Spice dominates the somewhat thin tasting experience.
Finish
The finish is surprisingly and pleasantly warm, smooth, and long. I’m not sure how many 94 proof bourbon you will find with this type of finish.
Conclusion
Having described all of this, there is nothing unique about George Remus Bourbon. It is a prototypical average $30 bourbon.