Smooth Ambler Old Scout Nicholas Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon Whiskey

Smooth Ambler is a really cool, independent distillery that was opened in the hills of West Virginia. The distillery was started and is still run by owner/master distiller, John Little – the man with the big plans.

Knowing that they have their work cut out for them to compete with the vast amounts of storied distilleries in Kentucky, the “little guys” at Smooth Ambler bust their butts day in, day out and every time I visit there, I’m more and more impressed by the quality. Critics have taken notice too as it consistently finds its way onto lists of ‘Top Non-Kentucky Bourbon’.

I tasted 12 barrels with John the last time I was down there & I could have selected 2 or 3 that would be worthy. The one that I walked away with was the best tasting single barrel that I have ever sampled from a small craft distiller. Especially when you consider that this is a full proof bourbon under 50 bucks!! Plus, it has a label so ugly that it’s actually awesome. This is a throw back for sure.