We had no predilections for Middle West Spirits when we had our bottle of their Straight Bourbon Whiskey – Michelone Reserve. We liked the price point, the clean bottle label and the fact that it’s a four-grain expression. But we had no idea how the whiskey inside was.

We learned real quick that Middle West definitely knows what they’re doing. We approach every bottle with objectivity, but we keep in mind that certain distilleries and brands have a reputation that precedes them. For our particular assessment, Middle West has a pretty good one.

So when we heard that MWS was releasing a set of cask strength bottles, our ears perked up. Being that we are a short 3-hour drive from Columbus, we decided we couldn’t let that opportunity pass us by. So we got in the car and made the rainy drove south. It was well worth it; not simply because the whiskey they produce is delicious, but because it was such a great experience. The space is beautiful and the people are awesome.

But let’s get to the whiskey! This Cask Strength version of their Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey – Michelone Reserve comes in at a hefty 126.54 proof. We couldn’t find anything particular on the age for this one, but we know it must be at least 2 years old, given the straight bourbon designation.

Nose

Prominent nutty aromas on the nose, with caramel, vanilla, maple and some fruit notes.

Palate

It’s sweet and fruity, with a bright fruit note that reminds us of Maraschino cherry. It’s nutty throughout with a foundation of caramel and vanilla sweetness.

Finish

The finish features some of that baking spice as well as a lingering note of almond extract. The honey and nutty notes stick around with a nice and flavorful finish.

Verdict

This bottle is well worth the $64.99 price tag. We gave a great rating to their regular expression of this bottle, and this one was even better, in our opinion. Generally, the notes we got on the 95-proof expression shine through more boldly, with a couple nice surprises in there too.

Overall we’re rating Middle West Spirits Cask Strength Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey Michelone Reserve an 8.3 out of 10.

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Cheers friends!