We turn our attention to Doc Swinson’s Blenders Cut Straight Bourbon bottled at 57% ABV, mash bill: 1: 60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malte. At $60/ 750ml bottle, it enters a competitive field.
Nose
This is a moderately deep amber in color. Aromatically, this had something to prove. There were hints of burnt cherries, banana candies, and vanilla crème brûlée. Fiery and feisty, this was closed down at first but opened up with time in the glass. The aromatics remind me of walking on hot pavement past one of Portlands finer ice cream shops while theyre making fresh waffle cones. Theres a green peppery note that I cant pin down, a bit like freshly sliced jalapeño peppers. Aside from the vanilla note on the finish, this whiskey just doesnt scream bourbon at the top of its lungs like other MGP rye-heavy bourbons do for me. The aromatics take a while to come around, but are interesting when they make their fashionably late entrance. The muskiness intrigues me, but Im not in love with the high ABV.rnrnI would consider this a must-buy or try if youre a fan of Doc Swinsons, otherwise, I get more out of the finished whiskeys than this unaltered release.
Palate
The palate is musky and interesting with a delicate astringency. The alcohol is certainly high, and, in comparison to other whiskeys in their current lineup, this whiskey has a moderate to light-bodied feel that evaporates off the palate. In the mouth, it offers up flavors of melted chocolate, musk perfume, lemon zest, and rye crackers. The finish is moderate in length, with notes of candied walnuts, vanilla extract, and cooked blueberries. 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
Doc Swinson’s Blenders Cut Straight Bourbon is a modest offering that, at $60/ 750ml bottle, serves its purpose without distinction. Those seeking depth or complexity may wish to look elsewhere in this price bracket.
