The Narrative:
It is mentioned on their website that the founding of the distillery could arguably be traced to a TIME magazine article. The article in question appeared in a January 2008 issue and featured a discussion on the re-emergence of craft distilling in the United States. So in 2009 Smooth Ambler Spirits Co. was founded by TAG Galyean and John Little. Both had wanted to make something that they and the surrounding Greenbrier Valley community could be proud of. Smooth Ambler Spirits has set out to produce fine artisan spirits by combining patient Appalachian know-how with the finest of American ingredients. Located in the rural Greenbrier Valley of West Virginia, Smooth Ambler uses state-of-the-art distillery equipment in conjunction with the natural resources of the region; high-valley mountain air, natural mountain waters, ideal temperature variations and friendly folks. Smooth Ambler is known as much for its premium taste products as it is for local West Virginia pride.
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Single Barrel
Origin: Lawrenceburg, Indiana & Maxwelton, West Virginia
Distiller: MGP of Indiana in Lawrenceburg, IN; Sourced and Bottled by Smooth Ambler Spirit Co. in Maxwelton, WV
Mashbill: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley – A ‘high rye’ bourbon
Cask: New Charred White Oak
Age: 12 Year age stated
ABV/Proof: Varies (This Barrel comes in at 54.7% ; 109.4 Proof)
Price: Varies by Region (Picked up locally for $85.00)
Mashbill
"This is a whiskey that hits you just right on the first sip."
Smooth Old Scout 12 Year Single Barrel #5913 Review
Color: Light Mahogany
Nose/Aroma: Cherries, cinnamon, pepper, tobacco, seasoned wood, brown sugar
Palate/Body: This is a powerful spicy whiskey initially on the palette. Lots of warmth in the whiskey. Loads of cinnamon, brown sugar, cherries, mint, sweet and spicy rich flavors. Oily body.
Finish: Short finish but lingering flavors. Some mint, more cinnamon, vanilla, caramel at the very end.
Overall: This is a whiskey that hits you just right on the first sip. So much that you want to keep pouring. My brother and I were very happy that I had been able to acquire this bottle the first time we tried it. I was able to get the other single barrel that was sent to the Florida area. That should make for a good comparison in the near future. Until then I will pleasantly sip on this bottle.
Have you had this particular bottle or another 12 year? What did you think? Leave a comment below!
Or, do have a favorite SAOS Single Barrel or Year? Mention in the comments below!
Drink Well Friends! 🥃👍
