DCLawyer
Reviewed
November 6, 2019 (edited January 30, 2020)
750ml neat in Glencairn at home. Near hazmat level, so expecting some heat on this one.
Nose is nutty, with lots of vanilla and caramel, some mild oak. Sweet, with some ethanol coming on late. Taste is more vanilla, ripe red apples, then the heat comes smashing in, bringing oak and spice to the party. Lingering hot spicy end. This batch has more heat than others I have had - it is higher proof, so that is on the one hand to be expected, but on the other hand the proof typically didn't make much difference in other batches, with the smooth vanilla and caramel winning out. This batch packs a real punch.
Add 3 drops of water. Nose is a bit more complex, with spice notes subbing in for the ethanol. Taste is similar, with more spice and vanilla shining through over the heat.
11/6/19.
Verdict: definitely add some water, this batch is no joke, but really nice.