Ho, Ho, Ho [whiskey taste #12]

There are a few whiskeys that I have waited a long time to review. Why? Because some of those drinks are so legendary, and so familiar to me that I may not do them justice. Well, Jim Beam [white label, aged 4 years] is one of those whiskeys---and perhaps my all-time favorite bourbon; for so many reasons.

Jim Beam [white label] is a very affordable and readily available bourbon. You only need to head to any spirits store or restaurant with a few crumbled up bills and you'll be enjoying this easy-going bourbon. Another bonus to this whiskey is that it pairs well with or without food. It finishes clean enough to let you enjoy your entree, while being just the right blend for laid-back conversations.

Many bourbon enthusiasts consider this the perfect mixing bourbon (for mixing with sprite, coke, etc), but as a purist I must argue that this is perhaps one of the best sipping bourbons. In fact my favorite description of Jim Beam [white label] is "a mellow baritone of a spirit"--which is so, so true. It is a very sweet bourbon with a smell of fresh cut apples and caramel. The initial taste is calm vanilla and sugar, which quickly gives way to oak and brown sugar flavors. The finish is long, but clean and always invites another sip of Jim Beam [i'm just being poetic here, drink responsibly].

This holiday season, open a bottle of Jim Beam [white label] with friends or family--it is the perfect conversation starter and palatable by everyone.

Merry Christmas!