Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/23459
SAM HoUSton S am’s back! With his updated look, re-designed bottle and under the guidance of a new company, Sam Houston has re-emerged as a taller, straighter-shooting American whiskey. Once a 10-year-old expression, Houston now begins his journey as a four-year-old 86-proof Kentucky bourbon. Our Panel Votes: “Mineral and pepper interact, subtly oaked. Floral and cereal notes are pretty, and a tropical nature (banana) appears with just a hint.” —Meridith May “Tropical notes—yes! Pineapple, banana, grilled fruits and cinnamon make Sam an interesting sip. Marshmallow-cream sweetness and spice on the finish.” —Trudy Thomas Western Spirits fireBALL CinnAMon WHiSKeY I n the shot circuit, Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey makes an impact, from its authentic cinnamon aromas to the burn of the Red Hots candy we remember from childhood. First introduced in 2006 in Canada (the base is Canadian whisky), 66-proof Fireball was part of the Dr. McGillicuddy’s line of schnapps. But the brand has come far since then, winning a Gold Medal at our San Francisco World Spirits Competition and creating its own identity with LDA adults who mix it with cola, cranberry juice or even sour apple schnapps. Our Panel Votes: “The nose is the real deal: not candied or syrupy. Great as a shot, but warming it as a cider would be ideal too. Some orange peel notes on the nose and palate add depth.” —Meridith May “The pungent nose of high-octane cinnamon is disguised as sweeter on the palate, with orange zest and a nice mouthfeel.” —Mac Gregory The Sazerac Company George Vercelli of the Sazerac Company put the burn on our lips with Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey. he concept of mixing cherries with bourbon is not new, but Red Stag is a contemporary take on a true American product. The 80-proof flavored whiskey mirrors the flavor profile of traditional bourbon-soaked black cherries, but with heritage: its base is Jim Beam four-year-old bourbon. red StAG T Our Panel Votes: “Mixability and innovation in an age-old spirits category. Bravo!” —Mac Gregory “Sweet cherry-pie nose and a sweet cream palate.” —Nathan Mears “Red cherry twizzler aromas with soft licorice spice and Tootsie Roll appeal.” —Trudy Thomas Beam Global Spirits & Wine january–february 201 1 / the tasting panel / 77