Smooth Ambler Big Level Wheated Bourbon

Smooth Ambler Big Level Wheated Bourbon

A narrow and focused aroma consisting of sage, bread yeast, soft caramel and grass starts things off. Subtle and airy, additional scents of light oak and a touch of cinnamon bark help add some depth, but they are also light and marginally significant. Its overall sweetness combined with its herbal and earthy scents works for the most part. Though not completely what you’d expect, the aroma is careful not to venture too far outside the box.

The palate transitions to a straightforward and soft offering of caramel and orange marmalade with a touch of cinnamon, sunflower seeds, and mellow oak. It’s decidedly sweet, yet careful not to be overly so. The palate wears its intention on its sleeve. There aren’t any tricks here. It’s upfront with its lack of complexity, and instead goes for elegance and an even-keeled drinkability.

Soft to a T, giving rise to the question: Is this really 100 proof? Gentle oak and caramel pudding are the main players before a tender ramp up of cinnamon spice. It’s a pleasant finish, forgoing any hint of offensiveness for an evenness of flavor. The lack of any amount of vigor is the finish’s main fault, failing to challenge the drinker in any lasting way.