Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon is a popular whiskey brand that has been making waves in the industry for over a decade. The brand is known for its high-quality bourbons that are sourced from the MGP distillery in Indiana. As a bourbon lover, I was excited to try out the Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon and see what all the fuss was about.
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Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon Overview
Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon is a high-rye bourbon that is blended in limited, hand-selected batches without chill-filtration. It enjoys the bold character that excellent bourbon should deliver.
Product History
Old Scout Bourbon is produced by Smooth Ambler Spirits Co. and distilled by MGP. The bourbon is aged for approximately five years and is non-chill-filtered. The mash bill includes 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malt.
The company has been producing Old Scout Bourbon since 2010. The brand has gained popularity over the years and has become a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
Price Range
The price of Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon varies depending on the batch and location. The current price for a bottle of Old Scout Bourbon is around $45. This is a reasonable price for a high-quality bourbon that has been aged for approximately five years.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted by a rich aroma of dark cherries and plums with a hint of rye spices. As I poured it into my Glencairn glass and let it rest for a few minutes, I noticed a background of vanilla, cinnamon, caramel, and berries. The alcohol is noticeable, but it does not overpower the other aromas.
Flavor
The first sip of Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon is a burst of rye spices, followed by caramel and berries. The light oak and char notes that follow give the bourbon a well-rounded flavor. The initial sweet simple syrup turns to a brown sugar sweetness later on, which adds depth to the flavor profile. The alcohol is well integrated and does not detract from the overall experience.
Finish
The finish on this bourbon is long and satisfying. The spice continues to develop into the finish, which is the highlight of the sip. The brown sugar sweetness lingers on the palate, leaving a pleasant aftertaste. However, the finish can be a bit bitter due to the notes of earthy mint and oak.
Rating
Overall, I would rate Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon as a solid choice for bourbon enthusiasts. It has a pleasing combination of flavors with a satisfying mouthfeel. The aroma and flavor profiles are complex, but not overwhelming. The finish can be a bit bitter, but it does not detract from the overall experience. I give it an 8 out of 10 and recommend this bourbon to anyone looking for a well-rounded and satisfying sip.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon, I recommend using mixers that complement the bourbon’s flavors. Some of the best mixers for this bourbon are ginger ale, lemonade, and cola. Ginger ale adds a spicy kick to the drink, while lemonade adds a refreshing citrus flavor. Cola, on the other hand, brings out the sweet vanilla and caramel notes in the bourbon.
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking to make a cocktail with Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon, there are a few classic recipes that work particularly well. One of my favorites is the Old Fashioned, which is made by muddling sugar and bitters, then adding bourbon and a twist of orange peel. Another great option is the Manhattan, which combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. For a refreshing summer drink, try a Bourbon Peach Tea, which mixes bourbon, peach schnapps, and iced tea.
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Food Pairings
When it comes to pairing food with Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon, I recommend sticking with rich, hearty flavors. This bourbon pairs particularly well with grilled meats, such as steak or pork chops. It also goes well with strong, salty cheeses, such as blue cheese or aged cheddar. For dessert, try pairing this bourbon with a rich chocolate cake or a creamy vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon is a solid and tasty bourbon that is worth trying. It has a good balance of sweetness and spice, with notes of vanilla, oak, and honey. The finish is smooth and satisfying, with a hint of fennel and citrus.
If you’re a fan of bourbon and looking for something new to try, I would recommend giving Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon a chance. It’s a well-crafted bourbon that is sure to please both novice and experienced drinkers alike.
Related Posts
If you enjoyed my review of Smooth Ambler Old Scout Bourbon, you might also be interested in reading more about other unique and interesting whiskies. Here are some related posts that I recommend checking out:
- Reviewing Mackmyra rum-finished expression Vinterdröm: This Swedish whisky is finished in rum casks, which gives it a unique flavor profile that’s worth trying.
- Dream Dram: a closer look at AnCnoc 35 Year Old: This limited edition bottling from AnCnoc is aged for 35 years and has a complex, layered flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
- A closer look at Dalvve from Swedish Box Distillery: This Swedish whisky is made using locally-sourced ingredients and has a unique flavor profile that’s worth exploring.
- Weekly Review: Claxton’s Glenrothes 19 Year Old (1997): This single cask whisky from Claxton’s is aged for 19 years and has a rich, complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
- Weekly Review: a closer look at SPEY Fumare: This peated single malt Scotch whisky from The Speyside Distillery has a unique flavor profile that’s worth exploring.
