In each issue of Whisky Advocate, the editors select three great value bottles: whiskies with solid scores, modest prices, and wide availability. For the Spring 2023 issue, an Oregon bourbon, bottled in bond rye from Chicago, and Irish blended whiskey all ranked as Best Values. For all whiskies reviewed in the Spring 2023 issue, turn to the Buying Guide._300.jpg)
89 Burnside Oregon Oaked Blended, 89 points, 46%, $30
Finished in garryana oak. A wood-forward and tight nose has notes of fresh oak, vanilla-almond ice cream, salted peanuts, and yogurt-covered pretzels. With water, some fruitiness emerges in the form of banana pudding with Nilla wafers, yet it remains soft and shy. The creamy palate delivers more nuttiness along with fresh raspberries, Bartlett pears, cherry blossoms, and black pepper. The finish is balanced yet short. Overall it’s simple and easy on the palate.—Ted Simmons
89 FEW Bottled In Bond, 89 points, 50%, $50
Cherry lemonade, lime Popsicles, Lemonheads candies, and shortbread cookies on the nose. Water brings out spicier notes: a light pepperiness, fennel, and honey cake, accented by slight hints of damp wood. The palate is citrus-forward, leaning heavily into tart lemon and lime, both freshly cut and sour candies. The finish brings dried vanilla bean and a pleasant breadiness. There’s good length, with a zing of citrus throughout.—Shane English
89 Sláinte, 89 points, 40%, $40
The influence of the bourbon cask finishing on this malt-and-grain blend is irrefutable. It presents aromas of toasted oats, golden syrup, vanilla, fresh-baked bread, white pepper, gentle spices, and a hint of banana. The honeyed silky palate is heavy on vanilla notes, with Victoria sponge cake, granola, red apple, and clove. Plenty of depth mellows to a mélange of vanilla, breakfast cereal, and lengthy spices.—Jonny McCormick
