Augusta Buckner's 13 Year - Drums & Drams "Team Michigan Wuz Here" (137.8 Proof)

This barrel was the favorite of a few members of the pick team that drove to the Augusta Distillery from Michigan, hence the name. Lots of red fruit and aged oak notes in this single barrel. Tasting notes below:

NOSE: Rich cherry pie filling on the nose supported by a heavy tobacco presence and leathery oak. This barrel has some funk, smelling every bit of its 13 years (and maybe older), but it’s always balanced by that Barton cherry note that has subtle reminders of both Calumet 15 (medicinal) and Calumet 16 (sweet bubble gum). Spending more time with it, a garnish of cinnamon stick and Dr. Pepper spice appears.

PALATE: The red fruit notes take center stage, with the drinking experience being more full-bodied and less spicy considering the proof. It’s an enveloping palate, with the cinnamon/Dr. Pepper notes serving as supports for a flood of complex cherry flavors. Later in the sip, a wallop of tobacco and oak appear, giving a funky and highly aged undertone to the entire experience. Just delicious!

FINISH: This is where the age of the whiskey really starts to show. Incredibly funky, long, leathery finish! Red fruit and spice notes take a backseat to what feels like a 15+ year bourbon in the finish. Fans of older whiskey will find lots to love here!