Boulder Spirits The 10 Essentials American Single Malt at 49.5% ABV; mash bill: 100% malted barley; SRP $64 — at $64.99/ 750ml bottle, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
This is a moderate golden brown in color. This is one of my favorite whiskeys to employ a blend of several finishing casks. The flavors are well-incorporated and subtle, while allowing the ASM style to shine through. This style is on the rise and I look forward to seeing even more releases from this classic Colorado producer.
Palate
On the palate, things get a touch more interesting. Theres hints of smoldering campfire, charcoal, and French sea salt. I appreciate that they state outright in their press release that this is unpeated, as the smokiness fooled me. The tannins are grippy and the finish is fruity, showing notes of red raspberries, cantaloupe, and walnut skins. 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.
Finish
Aged for an undisclosed amount of time in new American oak, further aged in a mix of finishing casks, and married as a blend for eight weeks; 49.5% ABV; mash bill: 100% malted barley; SRP $64.99/ 750ml bottle. This American Single Malt is decidedly fruity without being overwhelming or sweet. There are notes of red table grapes, honeydew melon, and pineapple skins. On the savory side, I picked up notes of fresh corn and sliced bread. There is a hint of vanilla pods. Im surprised this isnt more impacted by the finishing casks, but if subtly was the goal, mission accomplished.
The Bottom Line
Boulder Spirits The 10 Essentials American Single Malt delivers the goods. It is well-made, genuinely enjoyable, and at $64.99/ 750ml bottle represents solid value for what you are getting. I would happily buy this again.
