1 | Spirits | United States, $20 to $50, 1.75 L

"A lovely, sophisticated bourbon bouquet comprising fruity, cornmeal aromas which are followed by a red fruit scent, all underpinned by an oaky vanilla quality. Entry is reserved, gently sweet and toffee-like; the midpalate features succulent tastes of light caramel, honeywheat bread, caramel corn and toasted almond. Concludes fruity and corny. The best value American whiskey in the marketplace." Best Buy. 85-89 pts.

A new vodka from the Lonestar State, truly hand-crafted in a single pot still. Double Gold at the World Spirits Competition, whose elite panel of judges included our nationally recognized Spirits Specialist Joe Congiusti.

"The base aroma is buttered corn-on-the-cob with aeration bringing additional scents of vanilla and cinnamon. The palate entry showcases sweet breakfast cereal grain; at midpalate the corn dominates so thoroughly that you know that this could only be one of the best straight bourbons from Kentucky. Ends spirity and heated. One of America’s benchmark spirits." 90-95 pts.

"First aromas make me think peaches and blood oranges; later sniffings detect cotton candy and fabric. The gently fruity entry taste pleases the taste buds; at midpalate the peach component becomes more apparent as the orange element recedes. Finishes herbal, slightly honeyed, and more bittersweet than flat out sweet. Best Buy." 85-89 pts.

"Clear. Sweet aromas of tangerine gelatin candy, citrus frosting and delicate juniper follow through on a smooth, silky entry to a dryish medium body with rice candy, orange salt water taffy, mild pine sap notes. Finishes with a dry-yet-fruity dreamsicle stick-like, herb, and wet stone fade. A little confected, but very nice and highly approachable."

A classic from Jack Daniel's. Medium bodied. Reminiscent of citrus, honey, dried herbs, almonds. Moderately rich texture. Slightly tangy on the palate. While not overly herbaceous, there are ample fragrances as sensed in the country meadow.

"The opening nosings detect subtle odors of sweet grain and fresh, damp vegetation; further aeration introduces aromas of marshmallow and fiber. The palate entry is silky, textured and grainy sweet; at midpalate notes of charcoal/ash are found. Concludes on a smooth, sweet grain, sap-like note. A classy unflavored vodka that deserves a huge audience. Best Buy." 90-95 pts.