Compare
Smooth Ambler Old Scout vs Stellum Bourbon
Comparing Smooth Ambler Old Scout and Stellum Bourbon reveals a matchup between a sourced, spice-driven blend and an uncut, cask-strength bruiser.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Smooth Ambler Old Scout | Stellum Bourbon |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Traditional Bourbon, Barrel Proof |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley | Not disclosed |
| Age | 5 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 99 proof (49.5% ABV) | 115 proof (57.5% ABV) +16 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$40 – $50 ~$5 less | ~$45 – $55 |
- Stellum Bourbon does not publish an official mash bill.
- US shelf prices as of 2026-08; they vary widely by market.
AG’s Rating and AG’s Notes
Smooth Ambler Old Scout
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Stellum Bourbon
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Smooth Ambler Old Scout Stellum Bourbon
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
sweetness 5/6 sweetness: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 out of 10, Stellum Bourbon 6 out of 10
fruit 5/4 fruit: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 out of 10, Stellum Bourbon 4 out of 10
heat 6/7 heat: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 6 out of 10, Stellum Bourbon 7 out of 10
spice 7/7 spice: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 7 out of 10, Stellum Bourbon 7 out of 10
oak 6/6 oak: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 6 out of 10, Stellum Bourbon 6 out of 10
nuttiness 3/3 nuttiness: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 3 out of 10, Stellum Bourbon 3 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
These two land close together on every flavor axis — the differences are in texture and proof more than character.
- Smooth Ambler Old Scout: Sourced MGP bourbon selected and bottled in West Virginia, and one of the more honest sourced brands about exactly what it is. The characteristic MGP dill-and-pepper signature, cleanly presented.
- Stellum Bourbon: Barrell's lower-priced, cask-strength line. It drinks gentler than its proof, with vanilla and caramel on top of cinnamon, clove and a long, spicy finish.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go with Smooth Ambler Old Scout if you want the classic MGP high-rye profile from a bottler that has always been upfront about sourcing at a slightly lower price point.
- Go with Stellum Bourbon if you want a cask-strength, multi-state blend that drinks easier than its proof with the texture that comes from skipping chill filtration.
Best enjoyed neat, old-fashioned, cocktails (Smooth Ambler Old Scout); neat, old-fashioned (Stellum Bourbon).