Alright, let’s talk about a bottle that screams Tampa louder than a Gasparilla parade at full tilt. This Shortbarrel pick is a toasted and double-oaked bourbon designed to bring bold flavors, a little bit of pirate swagger, and a whole lot of depth. With a finishing barrel from Kevlin (Char #4, MED+ Toast), this bottle has been kissed by fire just long enough to develop some serious complexity. But does it live up to its high-seas hype? Let’s dive in.

Nose

Right out of the gate, it’s all sweet marshmallow and vanilla, like someone torched a s’more to perfection. Caramel makes an early entrance, drizzling over the whole affair with that thick, decadent richness. There’s a subtle cherry in the background, but it’s not cloying—it’s more like the deep, dark cherry you’d find in an old-fashioned. White pepper gives it a little kick, just enough to keep things interesting. It’s inviting, warm, and already setting the stage for something big.

Palate

Boom—big cherry and oak up front. This is where the double oaking really flexes, adding layers of toasted wood and deep caramelization. Brown sugar and caramel come through strong, creating that perfect sweet-but-not-too-sweet balance. Then comes the allspice, bringing a nice warmth that doesn’t overwhelm. Dark chocolate sneaks in toward the back, coating the tongue with a rich, slightly bitter depth that makes you want to take another sip. The mouthfeel is thick, almost chewy, and the flavors just keep unfolding.

Finish

The finish is medium to long, with brown sugar, caramel, and dark chocolate refusing to leave quietly. There’s nothing harsh here—just a smooth transition from palate to finish, where the toasted oak works its magic. This is the kind of pour that makes you want to grab a cigar, kick back, and let the flavors do the talking. If that’s your vibe, a Connecticut cigar would be the move—something mild, maybe a Perdomo or a Montecristo White or Yellow. The lighter tobacco would let the bourbon’s complexity shine.

Rating

  • Scott: 7.8