Smooth Ambler Contradiction Shelf Review
Shelf Review
Designed to give you all the quick hit information you need when you’re standing in front of your local liquor store’s whisky shelf.
Let’s see if this blend of sourced and proprietary whiskies can recapture the magic of some of the older Smooth Ambler bottlings. Can Batch 200 make me a believer in Smooth Ambler?
Age: Blend of 2-Year and 9-Year Whiskies
ABV: 46%
Cask: Virgin Oak Casks
MSRP: Around $40
Distillery Name: Smooth Ambler
Review Date: 11/30/20
Batch 200
Color: Light Caramel
Nose: Sweet, tangy caramel, with toasted wood and fruity, floral notes. There is an ashy undertone that brings some complexity to the nose.
Palate: Initially there is a strong woody taste that melts into a classic bourbon profile of caramel and toffee. Cherry syrup mixed with earthy notes. Back of the palate is slightly bitter. The mouthfeel lets this bourbon down considerably. It feels watered down. This makes it incredibly smooth and easy drinking, but it lacks the depth that a few more proof points higher would have been able to achieve. The flavors feel dulled by the low ABV.
Finish: Best part of this whiskey is the finish. Medium length. Honey, vanilla, some light spice and a lingering cherry note bring this whisky to a close.
Final Thoughts: There is a lot of potential here that just isn’t realized. There isn’t enough body or richness, or even flavors here to make this a standout. There are better options at comparable price points (or even below) that I would reach for before grabbing another bottle of this.
