But Buffalo Trace, not being content until they’re the best at everything, decided that they needed to corner the bottom shelf market even more by introducing new expressions of this lowly shelf turd by invigorating some age and proof into the mix. Through A Bottle of Whiskey, I'm thrilled to extend my passion beyond the walls of my beloved bar. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just taking your first steps into the world of whiskey, I'm here to guide you, share my experiences, and help you navigate the vast array of options available. Proof.A nose of toasted oak and baking spice leads to a complex palate with notes of caramel and citrus undertones. 3) Benchmark Small Batch Dark ‍Chocolate‌ and Red ⁣Wine: Indulge in the‌ divine ⁢union of ⁤velvety‌ smooth dark ⁢chocolate and⁣ a robust red wine.​ The deep, complex notes of the chocolate harmonize ‍flawlessly with the fruity undertones of the wine, creating ‌a decadent ⁣combination that ⁤will transport you to a ⁤world of ⁤pure gastronomic bliss. – Exceptional Value for Money: Benchmark⁣ Bourbon’s Affordable Elegance Finish: The finish is hot, but still approachable. There are lots of cherries and even some rye spice pops up. Cinnamon spice and burnt caramel stand out the most, but this is overall a finish that is very satisfying. Score: 6.5/10 Final Thoughts

Great value: With its ​exceptional‍ smoothness and affordable price point, Benchmark offers‍ an unbeatable value that ⁣won’t break⁤ the bank. Benchmark Full Proof Bourbon isn’t the first full proof bourbon by Buffalo Trace. The brand also produces Weller Full Proof, which while bottled at 114 proof, is also bottled at the same proof that it enters the barrel at. Sazerac, who owns Buffalo Trace, also owns Barton 1792 Distillery, which produces 1792 Full Proof that follows the same premise. While full proof aren’t quite barrel proof bourbons, they certainly compete in the same category as other high proof and barrel proof bourbons available in the market. This includes Knob Creek Single Barrel, Booker’s, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, and numerous other brands that fit this definition. Impeccable Craftsmanship:** Each bottle ⁢of Benchmark Bourbon is meticulously crafted by experienced distillers, ensuring top-notch quality and⁢ consistency. The brand follows tried-and-true traditional methods‌ while also embracing innovation, resulting in a product that satisfies ‍even the ‌most discerning bourbon enthusiasts. Bob: The green apple candy is really prominent. I've had Crown Royal Apple and we've tried a really lovely one from Traverse City, their Michigan Apple. This doesn't have the candy flavor of that, but it's like the LaCroix of Jolly Ranchers and has really harsh ethanol to go with it. It mimics a spiciness, but it's not spicy at all. I don't get a lot of baking spice on this.This would hopefully take some of the heat off of their more aged options like Buffalo Trace, Colonel E.H. Taylor, Eagle Rare, and Stagg Jr. Buffalo Trace Distillery Whiskeys

Once‍ distilled, the maturation ​process begins,⁣ during ⁤which the bourbon ages in charred oak barrels, absorbing the⁣ distinct notes of vanilla, caramel, ‌and spice. The‌ master distillers closely ⁣monitor the aging process, allowing the whiskey to‍ develop its layers⁤ of ⁢flavor​ over ⁢time.​ The final stage involves the skilled art of blending, where different aged bourbons are harmoniously combined to ⁣create the signature taste that Benchmark ⁣Bourbon is renowned for. ⁢The precise ratios​ and considerations of each batch ⁤ensure consistency while⁤ allowing the‌ whiskey ⁣to evolve with each new expression. Expertly ‍crafted: Benchmark Bourbon is meticulously ⁤distilled and‌ aged to ‍perfection, ⁣ensuring a ‌consistent ⁤and high-quality⁤ flavor profile. Blend until the consistency smoothens, then pour the mixture into your margarita glass. Garnish it with additional slices of fresh mango and a basil sprig.

Nose: Caramel candies straight from the wrapper, orange and cherry scents with vanilla custard. There’s some nice brown sugar sweet scents followed with a volley of tannins that I guess I wasn’t expecting: worn leather and seasoned oak.

Finally, they're cutting it down to 95 proof. I just don't understand single barrels that don't release at barrel strength. I don't mean to be a barrel-strength snob about it. There's always some good ones, like Russell's Reserve is always really good at 110 proof or whatever that one might be. Embark on‌ an unforgettable journey as we dive into the world of Benchmark’s⁢ finest‌ blends, where every sip is ⁢a sensory delight. Delve into a symphony of flavors and aromas that ⁤will mesmerize ⁣your taste buds‌ and transport⁢ you to a realm of pure indulgence. ‍Our‌ tasters have meticulously crafted this collection, selecting only ‍the most ‍exceptional blends that showcase⁣ the artistry ​and expertise of the⁤ Benchmark distillery. It's really just candy, apple and ethanol, and it's pretty right down the middle with that. Again, not offensive, but not really that good. And it's crazy to me that the Benchmark Top Floor was 10 times as complex as this. The secret is because Buffalo Trace treats their namesake product as a way to build repertoire with bourbon drinkers.They know that if they buy a bottle, they’ll be hooked on the brand, so they make it the best bottle they can give them for the money. Continuous ⁢Improvement: We embrace a culture of‍ continuous improvement,​ consistently refining ⁣our ​processes, ⁤and pushing the ⁣boundaries⁤ of ​what is⁣ possible.

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There wasn’t much surprise on this one because I’d expect a bottle that’s priced twice as much and aged twice as much to have the better score. The final tally shows that this ended up being the case. All of that isn’t to say that the Benchmark is a slouch though! On the contrary, I was quite surprised that Buffalo Trace didn’t try to shove an incomplete, hot mess of a bourbon into the market just to make a cash grab. This experience was a precursor to my venture into the liquor shop business, where I had the privilege of curating an extensive collection of liquors, granting me access to thousands of unique bottles from across the globe. Today, the‌ legacy of Benchmark Bourbon lives⁤ on ​at the ⁢Buffalo Trace Distillery, ⁤where ⁢the⁢ spirit ⁣is meticulously produced ​to ensure it remains ‍a testament to its illustrious past. By preserving ‍the‍ traditional⁢ production methods and leveraging expert craftsmanship, every bottle of Benchmark Bourbon pays homage to the⁢ heritage and dedication that has made it ⁣an enduring ⁣icon‌ of American whiskey. ⁣Whenever⁤ you indulge in a glass⁤ of ⁢this‍ refined libation,⁣ you are savoring a taste of history ​and the artistry of the⁤ master distillers who ⁤have meticulously perfected it over the years.