Bourbon Reviews: Buzzard’s Roost Toasted French Oak Straight Bourbon, Barrel Strength Straight Rye bottled at 52.5% ABV, mash bill: 74% corn, 21% rye, and 5% ma — a $85/750ml bottle expression that merits close attention.
Nose
The Buzzards Roost Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a deep orange-amber color. This whiskey was a touch lighter in color than the non-barrel strength version and is a moderate amber color. The nose is strongly spiced with a pungent note of freshly chopped oak, clove, and dried grass. There is a hint of nail polish remover, whole wheat toast, and ripe green apples. This is more potently perfumed of the two. The nose here seems more saccharine and neutral, with notes of pear juice, toasted white bread, caramel corn, popcorn, and Queen Annes lace. The sweetness opens up into notes of caramel, candied pecans, milky tea, Lyles Golden Syrup, fresh dill, and chalk dust. This is sugary on the palate with a moderately grippy mouthfeel and peppery alcohol. It feels like its evaporating on your tongue. There are notes of sandalwood, buckwheat, toasted brown rice, and dried apples. It is not overly fruity or floral, but more driven by grain and exotic spice notes. The finish is long and mellow, with notes of dried apples, toasted wheat bread, orange oil, and raw honey. Score: 4/5 Buzzards Roost Barrel Strength Rye (image via Buzzards Roost) Tasting Notes: Buzzards Roost Barrel Strength Straight Rye Whiskey Vital Stats: 4-year-old whiskey re-barreled in Char #1 new American oak, 57.5% ABV, mash bill: at least 51% rye, SRP $85/750ml bottle. Appearance: This whiskey was a touch lighter in color than the non-barrel strength version and is a moderate amber color. Nose: The nose here seems more saccharine and neutral, with notes of pear juice, toasted white bread, caramel corn, popcorn, and Queen Annes lace. The sweetness opens up into notes of caramel, candied pecans, milky tea, Lyles Golden Syrup, fresh dill, and chalk dust. Palate: Peppery and medium to full bodied, this is creamy on the palate but with a zippiness from the alcohol. I taste toasted rye bread, fresh baked whole wheat bread, caramel, and burnt sugar. Its nicely peppery on the tongue, with sweet and bitter aromas. Despite its high proof, it feels smooth on the palate. The caramel note carries through the finish alongside notes of molasses. Its not overly sweet and has very gentle tannins and a moderately long finish. With water, I taste ripe watermelon and maraschino cherries. Score: 4/5 Final Thoughts These are solid whiskies with deep and complex aromatics that stretch beyond fruit and spice. I had a slight personal preference for the Buzzards Roost Straight Bourbon Whiskey since the Buzzards Roost Barrel Strength Straight Rye Whiskey is a touch aggressive on the palate. The former seems more complete, while the latter would make a fine sipping whiskey for the more brave of heart.
Palate
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
Verdict
Bourbon Reviews: Buzzard’s Roost Toasted French Oak Straight Bourbon, Barrel Strength Straight Rye is a modest offering that, at $85/750ml bottle, serves its purpose without distinction. Those seeking depth or complexity may wish to look elsewhere in this price bracket.
