Borrowed Page American Whiskey Volume 1 at 116.88 Proof — at $75, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
Viscosity is thick, with legs teasing the taster as it takes its time to slowly expose itself. Golden and bold chestnut in color. at it, encouraging them to give it a chance. This first volume is a heavy hitter, leaving a long lasting impression that keeps the taster excited for the next volume and the next. Borrowed Page (image via American Mash & Grain) Tasting Notes: American Mash & Grain Borrowed Page American Whiskey Volume 1 Vital Stats: 116.88 Proof. Mash bill: 34% Watershed bourbon, 32% Wigle Monongahela rye, 24% Spirits of French Lick Lee Sinclair bourbon, 10% Whiskey Del Bac mesquite smoked single malt. Price is $75 and is exclusively sold on the American Mash & Grain website. Appearance: Viscosity is thick, with legs teasing the taster as it takes its time to slowly expose itself. Golden and bold chestnut in color. Nose: A sharp citrus peel, almost medicinal with a touch of smoke. Then rounds out to a floral cream maple donut.
Palate
The initial welcome was subtle but then, similar to some sneaky wasabi hiding in nigiri, the heat detonates. My eyes may have watered, and right when I was convinced that it would never end, it mellowed out. But it doesnt dismiss itself promptly. The sharp heat takes its time on the way out, making sure youll never forget it was there. The initial warm bourbon hug of creamy butterscotch makes a quick switch to a heated peppery citrus peel with a hint of smoke. Then an elongated mint finish cools off the fire. With the majority of the mash bill being mostly bourbon, one would think the welcoming front would last through the finish, but then you are quickly reminded of the proof and how the rye and single malt play just as much of a part in the journey too. Surprising, the mouthfeel is silky after the initial shock to the palate. Volume One of the limited release of American Mash & Grain Borrowed Page series is not one to overlook. This blended whiskey may seem intimidating upon sight of the proof and first initial sips, but don’t be fooled. Sit back, enjoy, and experience all this whiskey has to offer.rnrnThere is a story behind and within this bottle, and I appreciate American Mash & Grain’s efforts to bring to light what the American whiskey category has to offer. This juice is hot and abrasive, but sit with it a while and the levels will unfold in a way that you’ll find yourself slowly falling in love with the hot spell.
Finish
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.
The Bottom Line
Borrowed Page American Whiskey Volume 1 delivers the goods. It is well-made, genuinely enjoyable, and at $75 represents solid value for what you are getting. I would happily buy this again.
