Whiskey Review: McMenamins Billy Whiskey

prove its age does not define it. The nose imparts a bevy of toasty baking spices; cloves, cinnamon, allspice, and slight lemon zest provide the feeling of smelling a gingerbread cookie straight from the oven. The warmth of baking spices continues on in the palate, with darkened gingerbread, candied ginger, and espresso notes defining the spirit. Billy’s official tasting notes offer molasses on the palate, which is clear from the gingerbread taste. The aftertaste gives strong notes of Dutch speculoos cookies, lingering warmth but not overwhelming bite, and slight ginger. A lovely whisky overall, despite its relative youth. The nose, palate and aftertaste exhibit a wonderful symmetry. I would absolutely make the trek to purchase a bottle of McMenamins Billy Whiskey again, especially at $35 a pop. It would surely prove a great whiskey for cheering up dreary Portland winters, but drunk on a warm summer day it could be quite enjoyable as well. I give McMenamins Billy Whiskey a score of 93 for value, consistency and great flavor.