Smoke Wagon Uncut The Younger Bourbon (750Ml)

Smoke Wagon Uncut The Younger is a barrel-strength bourbon with a lot of personality. Nevada H&C Distilling in Las Vegas picks and bottles it. The whiskey itself is distilled in Indiana. It is about four years old and made from a high-rye mash with 36% rye.

Nothing is cut with water before bottling, and it is non-chill filtered. So you get it at full strength, close to the way it left the barrel. The proof can shift a little from batch to batch.

Your first sniff brings cinnamon and warm spice. Molasses and dried fruit follow, a bit like a holiday fruitcake. On the palate it is fruit-forward and almost candy-sweet. Cinnamon red hots take charge, with honey, caramel and a streak of rye spice. The texture feels thick and syrupy.

Expect heat on the finish. Bold cinnamon spice keeps going for a while. As it fades, a softer sweetness settles on your tongue.

A few drops of water calm the fire and bring out more fruit. A single large ice cube does the same job more slowly. Try it with a grilled steak, spiced nuts or a piece of dark chocolate.

Reach for this bourbon if you like big flavor and don't mind some burn. It is a strong value for a cask-strength pour. It is also a fun one to share with friends who enjoy a high-rye kick.