Barrell Seagrass

Nose - coconut, peaches, bread, salty Taste - apricots, grassy, wood

Very interesting blend, keeps you coming back. That syrupy apricot goodness is hard to put down

If it sounds like a science experiment, it really isn’t. This is still recognizably a rye, but baptized—a thoroughly unique, delightful summer thriller of a bottle. I really hope Barrell goes for more than just one round here.

My palate was confused with the first sampling of this - I thought it tasted like a punchbowl mix of whatever alcohol was leftover from last night's party. Some rye, some rum, some sweet wine, some apricot schnapps. With subsequent tastings, it's all come together for me, and I would now count it among some of my favorite whiskies. It's sweet and it's hot, but the rye gives a great balance so it's not just a hot sugar bomb. Of course they're not giving this away (it's pricey), but I give Barrell credit for doing something really interesting and unique. Update: 2nd bottle not as good as the first. Seems like the rum finish is lacking on this batch. More bitter and hot than the first bottle I had.

Nose: Fruity, spicy, herbal rye character - cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, dill, rosemary, etc. A variety of sliced apples. Bits of vanilla, oak, and a some white sugar sweetness. Under-ripe peaches and apricots. Blueberry scones with a touch of icing. The proof keeps this bright and present without being over the top or too aggressive. Palate: Peach cobbler, apple pie, and vanilla bean ice cream. Oak and tannin throughout. Clove, nutmeg, spearmint, lemon oil. Dill and anise are excellently integrated, too. Black pepper and leather are buried in here - like strawberries with black pepper and cheap maple syrup. A little bright and shiny overall, with a decent amount of treble. Hits towards the front of the palate. Medium mouthfeel. Finish: Apples, grapes, oak, and ethanol. Bitter lemon, naval orange come through, along with vanilla icing. A combo of rosemary and mint swirl show up, with touches of tobacco, black pepper, leather, and cocoa. Citrus, leather, spices... solid end to the finish. Medium-long length. Other notes: Fun expression, with the different casks really being put to excellent use. The madeira really helps keeps this cohesive and prevents things from getting too abrasive. If you dig rye or generally sweeter whiskeys, or are into interesting blends and finishing, this is right up your alley. I might try to snag a second bottle, even. Cheers!