Onyx and Amber - Copper Buffalo
- Ben Rhodes
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
Onyx & Amber Copper Buffalo - 18 Year Hazmat MGP American Light Whiskey finished in a BuffTurkey Barrel
Nose
Maple Oatmeal Cookie, Dried Cherries, Toasted Sugar, Barrel Spice, Vanilla Wafers, Marzipan (for the uninitiated, that's sweetened almond paste)
Palate
Pleasant sweetness, dark cocoa powder (baking cocoa), vanilla extract, peppery spice on the tip of the tongue, and mouthwatering proof that makes itself known without being overbearing (heat, as expected for a hazmat whiskey, but not astringent)
Finish
Slightly drying oak, faint bitterness (in a good way - think 30 seconds after sipping a Negroni), slightly oily, medium length.
Complexity
There was a lot going on to sit and pick apart. There wasn't much of an evolution in the profile as it opened up, but still plenty to dig into.
Uniqueness
I don't see many ultra aged whiskies from MGP floating around. Then considering the soaring proof, and the novelty of finishing in a BuffTurkey barrel, there isn't much to compare it to on the market.
Value
Between the age, proof, source, and finish, it wouldn't be that far out there to see some brands releasing whiskies with those stats at hundreds of dollars. Coming in at ~$75, it punches weight classes above what you would expect to find at that price.
Final Impression I love finding things that take detours from the conventional whiskies. This managed to be unique in what it is, without veering into a weird "what am I tasting" territory. If you don't mind stratospheric proof and are open to trying something on the unconventional side, this is a no brainer. I wouldn't recommend it to a beginner, but wouldn't hesitate suggesting this is a grab for any enthusiast!
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