Smooth Ambler Very Old Scout Review - 19 year

I didn't know much about Smooth Ambler Very Old Scout when I picked up this bottle, but at about $75 for a 19-year bourbon it seemed worth a shot. Actually, considering what other bourbons around that age go for, it seemed like an outstanding price. On the other hand, if it tasted like mop water, any price would be too high. Luckily this proved to be a solid purchase. While my knowledge of Smooth Ambler is still pretty limited, there is some great information from the fine folks at K&L and the Coopered Tot.

Smooth Ambler Very Old Scout - Tasting Notes (19 year)

Smooth Ambler Very Old Scout - 19 Year

Nose: Brown sugar, vanilla, oak, with some light spice and subtle tobacco underneath. A very enjoyable nose.
Palate: A lot of flavors here. Initial sweetness, like sugar water, followed by big notes of spice. Slightly drying mouth-feel, with a presence of anise. After sitting for a bit this even tasted a bit like an old-fashioned with some citrus and angostura notes. For a 19-year bourbon, I was pleasantly surprised that the oak notes were very light. Nowhere near as overpowering as some older bourbons can be.
Finish: The oak shows up a bit here, but still not enough to overshadow the other flavors. The anise remains present with some black pepper, all spice and very light leather.

Proof: 100 (50% ABV)
Price: ~$75

This is a great sipper with some really bold flavors. So good in fact that I grabbed a second bottle. If you are lucky enough to live in a state/city where Smooth Ambler is sold I'd suggest picking up a bottle of the Very Old Scout, even if you can't find the 19-year expression. While I can't speak to the Old Scout Bourbon or the Rye I wouldn't be surprised if they were of similar quality. I'm really happy I gave this bottle a chance as finding a quality bourbon that is this old and actually on the shelf is a rarity.

Very Old Scout 19 year Bourbon: 9.1/10