Sometimes, a bourbon comes along that makes you wonder if the distillers were just showing off. “Baby Fitz” is one of those bottles. It’s a brown sugar and maple powerhouse wrapped in a warm, wheated hug, clocking in at a fiery 127.8 proof. But despite the high octane, this one doesn’t just burn—it delivers layer after layer of deep sweetness, spice, and comforting richness. It’s got the heart of a dessert, the punch of a heavyweight, and enough balance to keep you reaching for another sip.

Nose

From the first swirl, this thing smells like a pastry chef got loose in a Rickhouse. Brown sugar, caramel, and vanilla explode from the glass, followed by waves of maple syrup and cinnamon. If breakfast bourbon were a thing (and honestly, why isn’t it?), this would be leading the charge. There’s also a toasty, buttery depth—think French toast dusted with cinnamon and soaked in syrup. And if you really let it open up, you might even catch a little oak hiding underneath all that sweetness.

Palate

Boom. That first sip is a full-on brown sugar and maple blitz, but in the best way possible. It’s rich, bold, and buttery smooth, thanks to that wheated mash bill. Caramel, vanilla, and molasses take over next, making it clear that this bottle is here to deliver flavor, not just proof. The heat is there—it’s 127.8 proof, after all—but it’s not overpowering. Instead, it settles in like a well-timed encore, giving you just enough bite to remind you this is serious bourbon. There’s even a bit of cinnamon spice that sneaks in toward the end, adding another layer of warmth.

Finish

Long, warm, and ridiculously satisfying. The brown sugar and vanilla continue their encore performance, blending seamlessly into a smooth, lingering sweetness. But just when you think it’s all over, a rich, slightly nutty note sneaks in—dark chocolate-covered hazelnut. It’s subtle, but it’s the perfect way to cap off a pour that’s already packed with deep, dessert-like flavors. The finish isn’t overly tannic or dry—just smooth, warm, and inviting, like a perfect nightcap after a long day.

Rating:

  • Scott: 8.1