Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bourbon Finished in Port Wine Barrels (2019 Edition)

Great

I tasted this as a 2 oz pour neat in a glen cairn. What immediately stuck out to me was the nose. There is a sweet, cherry and oak marriage that is delightful. The palate is on the sweeter side but not overwhelming. There is an initial blast of heat and then a really nice berries and cream flavor followed by a butterscotch finish. A dash of water releases some nutmeg and allspice and enhances the oak. Nicely done. Overall- I was impressed. That said $200 is a hefty price to pay. I think that the nice wood box swallows up some of that. I appreciated the fullness and the sweetness balanced by the spice. Reminded me very much of some of the Barrel Proof Rye I enjoy- Michters Barrel Proof immediately came to mind. Price being a factor, it brings what would be a 4.5 for me down to a 4.0.

So lovely

not as smooth as other port finish I've tasted

So the notes in here about it drinking a bit hot/harsh are spot on. I tend to like higher proof whiskeys as well, but this pour is a bit hot and unbalanced. Adding water mellows the heat, but overall it dilutes the character as well. Nose of maple syrup (classic AE), pear, caramel, white pepper, and a hint of rye bread. First sip reveals a full sweet smooth entry of vanilla/caramel that immediately gets demolished by heat, medicinal/astringency, green pepper, that then fades to a nice cashew and char finish, that is long and warm.