Ancient Roc (Rochester Elite)

The nose is very typical of Barton, who distilled this whiskey. Spicy bananas upfront, with a bit of peanut mixed with charred oak. A little bit of cinnamon, and maybe some custard comes and goes as the whiskey sits, which also tames the spice. The palate is a strong burst of hot, black pepper with dry charred oak, both of which immediately coat nearly the entire mouth. The banana takes a backseat, as does the peanut. There are some minor notes in the background that are a little too indistinguishable, but makes this a very interesting bourbon. It comes across very simple on the palate, but there is something about it that keeps bringing you back for more. The appeal seems to be that the more time you give it, the creamier it gets making for an ever changing experience. The finish is long and spicy, with heat keeping the mouth lit up as a swirl of creamy and dry oak slowly and nicely fades. This is very similar to 1792 Full Proof, but with more depth to it. Excellent for when you want an absolute spice bomb.