High West Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750Ml)

High West is best known for blending, but this bourbon is all its own work. The team distilled it in-house at The Distillery in Wanship, Utah. It is a high-rye bourbon, so expect more spice than a classic sweet pour.

It also follows the Bottled in Bond rules. That means one distillery and one distilling season. The spirit aged at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse. It was then bottled at exactly 100 proof.

The nose is bright and layered. You'll find crisp apple, golden raisin and citrus zest. Graham cracker, wildflower honey and malted chocolate follow, with toasted oak and honeycomb.

On the palate it tastes like stone fruit cobbler with a gingersnap on the side. Toasted marshmallow, cocoa and molasses fill it out. A touch of dried herbs and charred oak keeps it from getting too sweet. The finish turns nutty, with toasted almond and browned butter. Distiller's reviewer also finds caramel-covered popcorn on the nose and a peppery close.

Sip it neat or over one large cube. It also stands up well in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Serve it with smoked brisket, grilled ribeye or pecan pie.

If you're curious how a mountain distillery handles bourbon, start here. It's a great bottle to share with friends who think good bourbon only comes from Kentucky.