New from NoVA/DC/MD

[Photodudems]

Hello, all!

So, first post here! My name is Mike, and I'm SUPER new to bourbon, though I've had whiskey before (jameson/JD) My first drink ever was actually Jameson, and I didn't really like that so much. No offense to fans of the stuff, but it just came through as kerosene to me.

So, yesterday, I went out and bought a bottle of EW BIB 100p White Label and like it quite well. It is very mellow and not too sweet or sharp. At least to me. I was wondering what others here think of it?

Also, I've been wondering for a while what the general consensus is on Matterly & Moore (Heaven Hill) and Eagle Rare. I've had recommendations on both, but decided to go for the EW at first. All info on good starters in the $20 or less range would be appreciated.

[cigarnv]

IMO the EW BIB for about $12.50 in Va. is a great value.... the best of the 3 you mentioned to my palate.

[imbibehour]

welcome to the forum!

[flintlock]

Welcome!

I lived in Arlington for a few years and that area will always feel like a second home.

EW BiB is a permanent favorite of mine. It's got a unique flavor, and is loved by several members here. It's also very hard to find outside of the south, so many members never get a chance to taste it.

Another recommendation you'll get with good reason is Very Old Barton, both 90 and 100 proof.

And I think George Dickel 12 (parchment label), while not technically a true bourbon (labelling laws being what they are) is basically a delicious <$20 Tennessee bourbon with much to recommend it.

It's common, on these forums, to leap up into the expensive whiskies before you're educated yourself. There's a lot of great bourbon down around knee-height. Fish through the miniatures at the liquore store, take home a dozen, and do some tastings in a quiet environment. Buy slowly, buy what you've tasted, buy what you truly like.

Enjoy!

[ebo]

Hi there and welcome. You'll find so many varying degrees of opinions on here that your head will spin . I can't say what I think of EW BIB because I can't get it here (Ohio), but I do like EW black label. I also really like Eagle Rare quite a bit. There are some here that don't care for it much, but that's what keeps things interesting. Enjoy your time here and keep on experimenting with different Bourbons.

[Photodudems]

Thanks, Flint! That helps a lot.
Unfortunately, the minis around here are a bit limited to vodka and rum, with the only whiskey entry being JD which I know I'm not fond of.

Having been in VA have you tried Virginia Gentleman? I'm curious and might go grab a small bottle of it should it be deemed worthy.

I've noticed that folks here seem to jump prices rather quickly, but I can't afford to do that. For now, I'm content to spend about $40 a month to try 2-3 different options. Slowly, but surely.

[Parkersback]

Greetings, Photodudems, Welcome aboard!

I wish I could get EW BIB: I like the 86 well enough (though I think liked it more pre-NAS).

[Photodudems]

I don't really have anything to compare it too, but I like it. Very smooth and not too sharp. This may not be the proper term, but I also find it creamy. Almost like Bailey's. Good stuff, and a pleasant introduction to bourbon.