Do reviewers get honey barrels?

Fact - distillers send reviewers/bloggers free samples or bottles of their products for evaluation purposes.

So the poll is simple yes or no. Do you think on single barrel offerings the producers select what bottles get send out and pick whiskey that is better than the standard profile for that brand?

Vote yes if you think this has happened or No if you think this has never happened.

Never is a very long time.

Maybe?

Poll needs more options.

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Originally Posted by MyOldKyDram

Maybe?

Poll needs more options.

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Polis Yes or No, but feel free to comment if you to expand on something.

Has it ever happened...?

I'm inclined to say yes, but does anyone other than the distiller really know? It seems it would be in their best interest.

On the other hand, Chuck thinks his "honey" bottles from the distiller are the same as what he buys off the shelf.

My gut says that it has happened before and will happen again. It might not be common practice but it makes sense that a company would send its most stellar product to be reviewed. Kinda how a restaurant makes sure the a reviewer gets flawless food and service.

How else do you explain Evan Williams Single Barrel getting rated a 95 or 93? I've never drank an EWSB that I would rate higher than 86. It is good whiskey, not great whiskey.

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Originally Posted by Halifax

How else do you explain Evan Williams Single Barrel getting rated a 95 or 93? I've never drank an EWSB that I would rate higher than 86. It is good whiskey, not great whiskey.

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I would explain it that you your tastes don't agree with those who gave it a 95 or 93.

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Originally Posted by smokinjoe

I would explain it that you your tastes don't agree with those who gave it a 95 or 93.

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Or perhaps taste is but one of many factors as to why some whiskies receive extraordinary reviews.