Yellowstone 101 2020 Vs. Blood Oath Pact No. 6
This is an interesting comparison because these are both limited bottles in the $100 price range, similar proofs, with similar French-grape cask finishes. They are also both great examples of cask finishes that are not overdone, and don’t take over the base spirit. Fancy Glencairn liked the fancy Yellowstone bottle, so lets see if her eye gives her a win today!
Yellowstone) This limited edition is a 7-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon distilled by Limestone Branch, which finished its maturation in French oak armagnac barrels. $100, 101proof.
-The Nose is fairly delicate, with fruity notes of apricot and grape, along with vanilla, and light oak.
-The palate is somewhat oily in mouthfeel, but also somewhat delicate in flavor. More of those apricot and grape notes show up, along with vanilla, toffee, oak, and black pepper.
-The Finish is fairly short-to-medium, with oak, black pepper, and mild alcohol burn.
Overall this is a great tasting bourbon that is complimented by, but not overpowered by the armagnac casks. The only negative is the fairly short, unimpressive finish.
Blood Oath) A blend of 3 high-rye bourbons from Lux Row. A 14yr, 8yr, and 7yr, that was aged in Cognac barrels. $100, 98.6proof
-The Nose is sweet, funky, musty grape, and peanuts, along with vanilla and oak.
-The Palate is smooth, with vanilla, caramel, orange peel, oak, and a hint of that musty cognac grape. At the end some of the roasted peanut flavors start to appear.
-The finish is medium in length, with more musty oak, cognac, and spice.
Overall I really enjoy this one. The cognac barrels add just a touch of funk and fruity complexity without taking over the whiskey.
VERDICT) These are both good, but if you see both and want to buy one, I would definitely recommend the Blood Oath 6. It may be the best “finished” whiskey I’ve had this year. I love the musty fruit aroma and flavor from it. Fancy had to concede that her eyes led her astray today, but she’ll be back!
Let me know what you guys think in the comments!