Everyone agrees that Bardstown Bourbon Co. is one of the most exciting new producers in Kentucky. They've done a huge amount of work to get to this point and now that there flagship own distilled bourbon is on the market, I think we can start to talk about them in the same breath as the other big boys. IN lots of ways, they've become the most important distiller in this Bardstown area - eclipsing the often forgotten Barton and the ultra rare Willett Family Estate, which only releases tiny amounts of age stated bourbon at very high prices. Bardstown on the other hand is offering 6 year old bourbon at $40 that hits every single note here. Many might look at the mashbill and think, oh it's going to be a big spicy rye bourbon, but Bardstown has managed to achieve extreme balance here, which is exactly why I keep reaching for it. Let's go! An absolutely gorgeous nose of sweet oak, honey, seville zest, yellow fruits - apricot, quince, yellow cherries, subtle fresh herbs (maybe a bit of mint, tarragon and dill), good sprinkle of baking spice. It's all at once super supple, open and quite complex, focused on corny sweetness and zesty citrus. It really balances the freshness with a sense of completeness. It doesn't feel at all young, but lifted and punchy. ON the palate, we've got a great texture at 96 proof with the stone fruit and citrus taking charge. It's by no means rye driven which is interesting, but hints of earthy spice and minty herbal character remind us it's 36% rye. If Bardstown keeps putting stuff out this good at 6 years old for $40, the big guys are going to have rethink all there plans I think. Every bourbon lover should be tasting this new benchmark from the excellent producer in Bardstown.