by Mike » Thu Aug 05, 2010 11:22 am
Now, I may be projecting my own particular palate likes and desires here (and I probably am), but, if so, I take it as my sacred duty to do so! This is an ENTHUSIAST site and I am an enthusiast.
I have found all the Parker's Heritage bourbons (there have been three releases, right?) to be muchly to my liking. And, I have long noted that some of the older bourbons have cognac like subtlety and flavor. In my mind, that is why I like Pappy 20, Parker's Heritage 27 YO, Parker Heritage Anniversary, and Parker's Heritage Cask Strength bourbons so much. It should be noted that cognac like delicacy and flavor are never guaranteed with age, in fact, they are somewhat rare. Probably more often old age in bourbon just means too woody and tannic...........even so, I seem to mind that a bit less than most folks who play on this site.
Knowing little about why this might be the case, I have attributed it to time in the barrel, meaning that over a longer period of contact with the barrel there are reactions twixt the wood and the spirit (like with cognac) that give bourbon more delicacy and complexity, like can occur with a first rate beef stew (think Beef Bourguignon) after long cooking and storage..........who does not know that stews grow better with age, the flavors weave in and out among theselves and begin to lose their individual identities, making for a much more complex and interesting outcome.
P.S. I can hardily recommend Pierre Ferrand Cognacs for anyone wishing to try some excellent Cognac. The main reason I buy it is that I like it better than the others I have tried, but from the little I have read, the old man himself (Pierre), is a crusty old guy who sticks to his proven methods (is he still alive?).
Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rage at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light. - Dylan Thomas