US*1 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Barrel Strength - Limited Release
Barrel 15C261
55.1% ABV (110.2 proof)
~$75 (sample provided)
Color: russet. medium brown with red tint.
Smell: robust, with very little alcohol heat and many layers of flavors. I get some caramel as well as a chocolate fudge-like sweetness alongside a big leather note. As it opens up, there's more traditional rye spiciness: clove and cinnamon. The leather and spices remind me of a fireplace.
Taste: pretty consistent with the smell. Subdued and balanced sweetness on entry, with a little alcohol heat - not surprising given the proof. The transition brings in the spicebox - cinnamon most prominently. The cheek-puckering (in a good way) finish for me is driven by leather. Very well-balanced on the palate - nothing rises too high.Overall: this is really good stuff. Although a bruiser by proof, the integrated smoothness and balance is impressive. Great depth of flavor, and very sippable. Hate or love Michter's, they seem to know what they're doing. Highly recommended. $75 is a big ask, but I'd put this right alongside Sazerac 18 in terms of the total experience (albeit with a slightly shorter finish).
