Barrell Craft Spirits Gold Label Dovetail (2022 Release)

Received a sample from a friend. Glass: Glencairn, rested 15 minutes. Color: Light-medium amber. Nose: Vanilla and caramel with fruity and floral notes. Palate: Lots of cinnamon and baking spices. Finish: Very long and very hot. The 140 proof is on full display here. Splash: This opens up beautifully with a few drops of water. The oak which had been covered up by the spice in the palate comes through, with distinct notes of clove and a bit of peanut brittle. Overall: 9.5/10 - Even though this is the highest MSRP ($499.99) of any whiskey I've tried, my rating is based purely on enjoyment. The light color was a bit of a concern at first, and the nose that started off overly sweet became much more floral while resting in the glass. The palate, which was a spice bomb at first, became a delightful mix of flavors with just s few drops of water. The finish just won't quit. I'd put this up against any whiskey that I've rated, period. If I could, I'd blind this against some true unicorns, but alas, that $500 price tag, if you can even find it at that price.

Aroma is vanilla and honey but the flavor is a JOURNEY. The initial vanilla hit melts into all the casks it's finished in, sweet rum, almost a little tart, the tannins of the Cabernet, it's rich and just melts. Tingly burn to accent it, but the wood and tannins complexity are beautiful. Magnifique.