This Bourbon is bottled exclusively for the Trader Joe’s stores in the U.S., and is a bargain-basement find with a retail price around $15 per bottle. While the distillery is not named, it’s very likely that the whiskey comes from Heaven Hill, and the decision to bottle it at 45% ABV gives it a bit more flavor and punch than other “bargain” whiskies.

The nose is smooth and clean with notes of oak, molasses, brown sugar, honey, vanilla, and a hint of wood smoke. The taste is thick with caramel cola, a strong burst of cinnamon and black pepper, vanilla, cocoa, and honey. The finish is long and woody with lingering spices. (August, 2015)