Tastes

Pushing the upper limits of when aging leads to wood content to overpower the whiskey. At 24 years, Heaven Hill nailed it.

Love the bold cinnamon notes that are perfectly balanced into the rye.

Pretty standard bourbon. Like the proofing.

I love Mizunara casks - you never know what you are going to get! Most commonly, I find it producing a toasted agave flavor, similar to tequila. In this case, the hint of raspberry on the nose leads to a mild berry jam brings the tequila flair in a black tea direction. At cask strength, this is remarkably smooth.

The tropical sweetness drive on this cask strength, ex-bourbon whisky stands out. Not sure it’s worth the price tag, but it is delicious. The nose is crisp with apple & honey notes. I even pick up a hint of EH Taylor on the nose. The palate is rich with melon, tangerine, lemon & other tropical fruit. A delight.

When I had this a few years ago, it didn’t impress me. Perhaps more recent batches have gotten better, or perhaps my appreciation & understanding of sherried whiskeys has improved, as I really dig this now. Its light body, yet well-rounded and full flavors make it an intriguing pick at $120. Tropical red fruit with a peppery influence & a hint of roasted almond.

Grain based flavor. Honey & caramel notes.

I think I just don’t like Glenlivet. Even the sherry cask doesn’t help.

Excellent wheated whiskey. Great price point for a barrel strength wheater. Caramel, honey & grass on the pallet.

Surprisingly good for Knob Creek. Baking spice & caramel nose. Cinnamon & ginger come out on the burnt sugar pallet.