It’s hard to believe that 2022 brings us the sixth installment of the much-anticipated Remus Repeal Reserve from the reputable MGP distillery. Over the years, the Remus line has gained immense popularity, especially after the release of its fifth batch, which propelled it to new heights. What set this particular release apart was the inclusion of a significant portion of 15+ year old bourbon, harkening back to the “golden era” of Indiana bourbon, expertly crafted by the legendary Master Distiller, Larry Ebersold.
Contents
A Younger Blend with a Bold Charm
For the sixth release, known as Remus Repeal Reserve VI, the blend takes on a fresher, more youthful character. Nearly half of the blend consists of 10-year-old bourbon, while 54% clocks in at a mere 8 years old. Though the exact creation and dumping dates of the barrels remain undisclosed, it’s possible that some of them could be as young as 7 or 9 years old.
Intriguingly, despite the relative youthfulness of the blend, this expression still manages to transport us with its fascinating complexity. The Remus Repeal Reserve VI maintains the brand’s signature charm while introducing a new dimension to its flavor profile.
An Ode to Craftsmanship
MGP distillery takes pride in its team of Master Blenders, who play a pivotal role in the creation of each batch. These talented individuals are often unsung heroes, meticulously orchestrating the blending process to ensure the final product delivers an exceptional experience. While a Master Distiller can lay the foundation with perfect distillate, it is the Master Blender who fine-tunes the blend, overseeing the aging process and maintaining the utmost quality control.
Unveiling the Rationale Behind Remus VI
So why did the blending team at MGP decide to showcase these comparatively young barrels in their latest Remus release? What convinced them that this blend deserved to be their crowning achievement of 2022? Let’s embark on a tasting journey to unravel the secrets within this intriguing expression.
Tasting Notes: A Journey of Senses
Nose: Unexpectedly, the barrels reveal their age with captivating old oak aromas, reminiscent of dusty antique furniture. The scent unfolds, offering a delightful combination of sweet caramel, akin to an opened bag of Candy Corn tinged with brown sugar and vanilla. Adding to its mature character, notes of old leather and pipe tobacco emerge, creating a captivating olfactory experience.
Palate: While the nose boasts aged notes, the palate takes an enticing turn towards high-rye characteristics. Herbal nuances dance on the tongue, blending spearmint and citrus flavors of orange and lime, accompanied by hints of cinnamon and pine. A subtle alkaline reminiscent of baker’s chocolate adds an unexpected layer of complexity. Sweeter notes of maraschino cherries, honey butter, and cooked apple emerge, while tannic elements develop gradually, featuring oak, cigar wrapper, and leather book notes.
Finish: The finish lingers with a delightful sweetness, gracefully intertwining with the lingering baking spices. Pine needles, sweet citrus, brown sugar, and oak take turns revealing their flavors, resulting in a satisfying conclusion to this remarkable tasting experience.
A Successful Addition to Any Shelf
With an overall score of 8.1/10, Remus Repeal Reserve VI might not have initially impressed with its age statistics. However, after indulging in the blend, it becomes evident that it holds its own against its distinguished predecessors. MGP manages to showcase the complexity that comes with aging, even with comparatively younger barrels. This bottle undoubtedly deserves a spot on any discerning bourbon enthusiast’s shelf.
It’s worth mentioning that while this release aligns with previous Remus batches in terms of its rating, it doesn’t necessarily redefine the brand. Nevertheless, it remains an exceptional drink that won’t disappoint, even though it may not drastically alter your perception of the label.
Looking Ahead: A Suggestion for the Blend Masters
As I wrap up this review, I can’t help but ponder an idea for the MGP blending team. Given the evident craftsmanship and attention to detail put into each Remus batch, why not consider bottling different proofs? Take a cue from Old Forester’s annual release of Birthday Bourbon, where experts assess various proofs to determine the one that best showcases the bourbon’s flavors. As a premium product that demands the utmost craftsmanship, offering multiple proof options could elevate the Remus experience even further. It’s a small detail that could potentially be a game-changer.
Now that I’ve shared this suggestion, I’ll savor the remaining Remus Repeal Reserve VI in my glass, eagerly anticipating next year’s batch and the surprises it holds. Don’t miss out on the chance to embark on your own Remus journey. Treat yourself to a bottle of Remus Repeal Reserve VI from the Ambassadeur Hotel, and discover the artistry behind this extraordinary blend.
