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I could tell that as soon as I opened this bottle of Stellum Black Bourbon Hunter's Moon, it would most likely be something I really liked. Full disclosure, I gravitate toward bourbons that are a little more sweet and spicy. I want to mention that because, as much as I try to be objective, I'm sure my personal preferences influence some of my reviews. Anyway, here is a review of Stellum Black Bourbon Hunter's Moon.
Rating: 80
| Nose |
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| Palate |
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| Finish |
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| Uniqueness |
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| Value |
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Ratings breakdown based on a 100 point scale.
- 90-100 Exceptional
- 80-89 Very Good
- 70-79 Average
- 60-69 Below Average
- 50-60 Drain Pour
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Detailed Tasting Notes
Nose Review - Rating: 84
Immediately the brown sugar and dark caramel notes were noticeable on the nose. The aroma is very creamy. It is almost as if you could chew it. I have a personal preference for a brown sugar aroma that has a slight ethanol smell mixed in. This is certainly how I would describe the aroma of Hunter's Moon. I stayed with the nose longer than I typically do before taking my first sip because I wanted to see if the nose would shift. It did not, and I do not mind one bit.
Palate Review - Rating: 81
The first sip is governed by a sweet peppery baking spice heat with more spice than sweetness. The chewiness I sensed in the aroma was also there on the palate. Initially, the oiliness of the mouthfeel I always look for was not there. Ha! There it is as I get deeper into the tasting experience! This is clearly a high rye bourbon, as indicated by the taste. I don't know about the mash bill. However, a little bit of creamy sweetness trickles in after this peppery, cinnamon-rye palate. There is also a woody and earthy taste on the mid-palate and beyond.
Finish Review - Rating: 79
The finish of Hunter's Moon has a woody, earthy taste that does not linger too long. Before this tasting, I had Barrell Bourbon New Year 2023, which had an exceptionally long finish, so I hope that tasting didn't taint my judgment. I will revisit Hunter's Moon in a couple weeks.
Uniqueness Review - Rating: 80
It's impressive how the blenders at Stellum can get so much variety in their portfolio.
Value Review - Rating: 77
The $99 price point is a tricky one. I'd prefer that this Stellum Black Bourbon Hunter's Moon offering was closer to the $79.99 price point that Barrell Craft Spirits uses. Don't get me wrong, I have had many Stellum Black whiskeys worth a $99.99 price point.
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Smell IS taste. I am just a guy who has been hit with the bourbon bug and who has come to the conclusion that life is too short to drink average tasting bourbons. Go Gators!
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