BOTM 3/12: Old Rip Van Winkle 10yr 90 proof

I finally laid my hands on my first bottle of ORVW 10/90 and find it a pleasant pour. I agree with LongBeachScott (above) for the most part on the comparisons of the two Wellers with the two ORVWs. I don't find that much initial hotness in the Wellers, and I do like the finish on the ORVWs better. ORVW 10/107 is my favorite of the bunch, and I would like to have it around all the time, but, like Scott said, price and availability do matter, and like FishNBowlJoe says, I've never met a Weller I didn't like, so the Wellers remain regular purchases--for convenience, value, and taste. I will go out of my way to find a Lot B or a Pappy 15, though, as those are special pours for me.

Excellent product and agree with Weller_Tex on the creamy maple-like sweetness. very much a brandy-like whiskey.

I preferred it in fact to a Lot B I got at the same time (this in Ontario), the overall balance was better.

There is still though in my mind - and I can only stress taste is personal - a divide between wheat-recipe and rye-recipe bourbons and I still prefer the latter. They seem more complex, more is happening, than with any wheater I've had even for the great days of MM and S-W.

Gary

It's April 4th, Joe. We're all rootin' for ya!!!

I fear my taste buds are changing but does anyone else think the ORVW 107 taste is more medicinal,or metallic than it used to be? I find myself liking the 90 much better now..I used to be able to smell and taste the oak barrel in the 107 and now,not so much..maybe it is just me but I am not so sure..It has been that way for the last 3-4 bottles I have purchased...Truly sad..