BARRELL WHISKEY FINISHED IN FRENCH OAK & OLOROSO SHERRY CASK STRENGTH KENTUCKY 33YR 750ML

Soft and satisfyingly mature, the aroma is of purple berries blends seamlessly with hazelnut liqueur and garam masala. The palate comes alive with water; endlessly entertaining as every splash reveals different nuts, spices, herbs and sweets. But the finish always returns to a deep, mulchy earthiness.

Appearance: Dark goldenrod.

Nose: Begins with a gentleness that belies its high strength. Rather, it opens ethereally on concord grape and ozone. Fudge is lifted by the spirit’s fresh lager and green grape and grounded in age’s paraffin and dusty attic. The finishing casks are seamlessly integrated; the oloroso expanding the complexity with elderberry and walnut shells. French oak pads out the nose with the richness of pistachio ice cream.

Palate: It shows its proof now, but beneath it lies a syrupy foundation of grenadine, hazelnut liqueur, and poppyseed. Hay and buttered popcorn typify Canadian whisky’s retention of primary grain flavors. The oak, too, displays primary flavors including endive and pine resin. But at its core is a classic profile of gingerbread, clove, and peppercorn. Basil and mint tea make an herbal counterpoint.

Finish: An almost medicinal burst of eucalyptus and menthol subside to expose some tannin and astringency that extend the earthy finish. Autumn leaves and radish evolve into mulch and leather then fade on peanut oil.

With a few drops of spring water:

Butterscotch pudding, milk chocolate, and espresso transform the nose into a dessert platter. On the palate, baklava, roasted chestnut and black cherry take center stage. The oloroso’s savory side brings grilled portobello mushroom with a hint of miso and salt. Burnt marshmallow leads the finish. Fresh cider, licorice root and beeswax follow it.