This wheated offering is a recent favorite of mine. 10 years old, 100 proof, very balanced, around $100, and becoming somewhat available. In the midnight hour I cry more, more, more…
So a Billie Idol reference doesn’t tickle your fancy. This is the bourbon you’re looking for? That’s Rebel Alliance adjacent, right? Anywho, this could be a bottle to bring balance to the bourbon market.
As stated above a strong age statement, great flavor, and availability are some qualities I look for in a dram. To me this is prototypical daily drinker. This pour is medium amber in color and not very viscous. The nose is heavy in oak, with many sweet overtones present. Carmel, cherry, and vanilla are smattered beneath the wood. The first sip coats the tongue nicely. The sweet notes dance down the middle of my palate for a brief moment. The oak follows with a pleasant dry finish that invites you for another sip.
Where does this fit in my bar? This is for me is the perfect daily drinker. I reach for this bottle frequently. Rebel 10 Year is reliable and tasty. It’s a great first pour of the evening (or a flight of whiskeys), to me because it sets the stage of what a bourbon is supposed to be. In fairness it is not overly complicated, but not every pour has to be. Rebel 10 year will not trample your taste buds and you’ll be ready for more, more, more…