Shenk's Homestead 2023 Release Small Batch Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey (700ml)

"A whiskey with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that nails its funky weirdness and its long, sweet finish." - breakingbourbon.com

Other reviews... Little is known about this whiskey, as it is just labeled “sour mash whiskey” which means the mashbill could be any mix of grains, or it could be a blend of many different mashbills. This lack of clarification is frustrating, but if you look past it, you find a really captivating whiskey. What’s most engaging about it is its smooth, creamy mouthfeel that also has a funky oak undertone. As much as I hate to say it, this feature is reminiscent of Pappy Van Winkle releases, though don’t take this to mean it tastes the same.  The whiskey has a weird but intriguing flavor profile. Caramel lays a base on the nose and then weaves its way throughout the sip. Funky oak, toffee, and odd but welcome scents of cotton candy and bubble gum join them, punctuated by a hint of earthiness. Richer, darker caramel comes out on the palate, along with cigar box, aged leather, persistent funky oak, and that earthy undertone again. A slight bit of spice develops at the onset of the finish, which transitions quickly to sweeter flavors of honey, caramel popcorn, and tiramisu which then lingers intently. This is a fun whiskey that doesn’t pull any punches. It’s weird, but in a fun “let’s get weird!” way that doesn’t cross any boundaries but still manages to pull you out of your comfort zone. It shares a creamy, oaky characteristic with the highly revered Pappy Van Winkle line, and though it isn’t the same, it provides a strangely similar experience in that regard... it’s not cheap, but it is one that’s worthy of occasions that call for a unique, oak-forward pour. - breakingbourbon.com