October 2024
The Smashing Pumpkins collaboration is a 93-proof straight bourbon aged for four years and infused with Midnight Rose tea from front man Billy Corgan’s Chicago tea shop, Madam Zuzu’s.
I enjoyed this whiskey with some friends and then sat with it while listening to Pumpkin’s 1993 Siamese Dream album by myself. It’s a tasty sip right away, easy to drink, and full of body, which I always expect from a FEW whiskey. The body brings depth and a velvety texture, but it’s not overly viscous, which I am not usually a fan of. Lots of sweet fruit is present up front, and peaches and pears are on the palate quickly, with a nose full of buttered popcorn and warm caramel. The flavor matches the nose right away. I get so much buttered popcorn that stays in the happy zone and doesn’t overtake the sweetness, a testament to the art of infusion and talent in blending.
And then comes the fun stuff. The tea infusion articulates unexpectedly. Floral, rose hips, and earthy spices come forward, certainly not knocking out those sweet, warm bourbon flavors; they mingle beautifully. I am very impressed with the way this whiskey finishes. The tea infusion is an integral part of the profile of this whiskey, as it should be.
I am impressed by the FEW team for producing such an interestingly delicious whiskey. And let me just say, if you’re not adventurous in your bourbon choices, pick this bottle up. Do yourself a favor; this #bourbon will broaden your horizons.
Album recommended: Siamese Dream
Tracks: Soma and Quiet
Glass: Neat in a wide-mouth glass
Lighting: warm and soft.
Cocktail: Highball with a dash of bitters and a spritz of rose water.
Cheers,
Sailor
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