Flavored brown spirits are nothing new, yet the novelty can come across as a one trick pony. I’d heard of Duke & Dame Salted Caramel Whiskey for well over a year and, frankly, though salted caramel is wonderful, I wondered whether it could work as a flavored whiskey? The nose is as blatant as can be – the smell is exactly salted caramel. Moving to the first sip, the salted caramel continues and the sweetness is a little overwhelming and the initial response is that this is best suited as a mixer or to be cut. It does offer some mature spicy notes like resin, browned butter and light apricot but it’s not meant to be anything other than what it is. This is a corn-based mash bill that is then sourced and blended from two-year aged whiskey, and then flavored with salted caramel. Their flavor profile is unapologetic and on the plus side, this tastes exactly as you imagine it will. Therefore, if you’re a fan of flavored whiskies, this is for you. For hard-core purists, this may not be to your liking. I do admit to pouring a dash over French vanilla ice cream, which worked very well. It’s also a chance to explore different cocktails and to mix up your routine. 91
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Duke & Dame
Spirit Type – Whiskey
Other Designation – Salted Caramel Flavored
Country of Origin – USA
ABV – 45%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $32
Score – 91
Date Reviewed – 10/1/2024