(Batch 92M Bottle 6640)
A little harsh at first, both on the nose and the palate. Given time to breathe, the nose begins to reveal its character in the form of vanilla extract, iced tea, pungent and peppery spices, cherry blossoms, crabapple, rough cut lumber, stale peanut shells, and a pinch of spearmint. On the tongue it burns slow but steady. Beyond the alcohol there is sweet cherry syrup, Pink Lady apple, mild rye spice, a touch of clove, and a splash of Ruby Port. The body is alright, with a relatively thin mouthfeel that thickens as you hold it. The legs run quick and wild at first, but a thin skirt cascades several waves of more uniform and delicate patterns to follow. The finish is mild yet long, with sweet and sour disposition. Some raisiny fruitiness lingers alongside slightly tannic wood, citric acid, leather, and whispers of spice. I preferred this with ice, as it seems to round everything off without sacrificing too much flavor.
Nose: 7
Taste: 6
Body: 5
Finish: 7