Doc Swinson’s Blenders Cut Review
In-Depth Review
Doc Swinson’s is a brand that even some of the most eager whisky afficionados may not know about. Founded in the not so distant past, it comes out of the Pacific Northwest – known as the burgeoning mecca of American Single Malt. But unlike their close neighbors Westland or Westward, Doc Swinson’s Master Blender Jesse Parker is tackling another American mainstay – bourbon. Sourcing distillate directly from MPG (the largest producer in the US) Jesse has focused Doc Swinson’s current efforts on creating exceptional blends that are known for being both funky and charismatic. And while many will remember the legendary Kentucky single barrel releases they did a few years ago, that had impressive age statements and excellent pricing, Jesse is hoping for more continued success with his blending projects. Expressions like their Alter Ego, and Exploratory cask series try to find the balance between traditional bourbon and the excitement of experimentation that is imbued into the Pacific Northwest identity.
As part of the expanding lineup from Doc’s, Jesse has released this “Blenders Cut” expression that gives a peak behind the curtain into the base MGP blend that becomes the cornerstone of all of their expressions (outside of their rye). Blenders Cut is a blend of two MPG mashbills (one with 36% rye and the other with 21% rye) and is blended and bottled with no chill filtration at 115 proof. So let’s dive in and see what the folks at Doc Swinson’s are using as the heart of their products.
Age: 5 Years (At least)
ABV: 57.5%
Cask: New Oak
MSRP: $50
Distillery Name: Doc Swinson’s
Review Date: May 27th, 2022
Color: Tawny caramel
Nose: Right up front there is a big blast of grape soda. It’s not as sweet as a full-fledged Welch’s rape soda, but its close. Almost like a diet grape soda. Then comes notes of sawdust, cornmeal, and a touch of grain. The heat from 115 proof is not subtle and can be overpowering at times but as it settles in the glass the notes change from the grape forward initial pass to more maple syrup drizzled waffles. The nose doesn’t come off as out of the ordinary and remains similar to other MGP sourced whiskies I’ve tried lately.
Palate: First impression of the palate: the 115 proof listed on the bottle feels a hell of a lot like a kick in the teeth. It’s a bigger, brasher, hotter sip than I expected from its nose. There are still layers of grape soda, but it takes a back seat to the proof. As your mouth gets accustomed to it, notes of spearmint and wood oil come through but the palate still feels closed off and begs for a touch of water. After adding a few drops, this whisky comes to life. The heat is replaced with a creamy mouthfeel that features toasted marshmallows, dark red fruit, and honey. The heat is also tamped down considerably, allowing for all of the flavors to unfurl.
Finish: The medium length finish leaves you with a spicy dark chocolate note and lots of barrel char and wood tannins. It’s spicy – but in a white peppercorn kind of way rather than a cinnamon Red Hots type of way. After a few drops of water, more vanilla and wood show up, making for a slightly softer and more predictable finish.
Final Thoughts: Doc Swinson’s Blenders Cut is a good bourbon that can at times feel incomplete. It can feel typical MGP – but maybe that’s the point as this was always supposed to just give an insight to the building blocks of their other expressions. While the nose gives off an interesting grape soda vibe, it doesn’t do a whole lot else to stand out. And even after getting over the initial heat on the palate, the flavors can be hard to pick out. But a touch of water makes this whiskey really come alive. The mouthfeel gets better and becomes creamy and delicious. If this is what Doc Swinson use for their “base” whisky – then the rest of their expressions are bound to be exceptional. I can’t wait to explore what else this quirky distillery out of Washington is putting together.
