The Senator Barrel Proof Straight Rye (Fall 2018)

Good vanilla oak start, but then just gets hot and a bit chemical. Medium finish- expected something more dense from a 6yr barrel proof

Smooth start and finish Okay front Citrus

Bottled in Winter 2020 Proof 117.0 ABV 58.5% Aroma - for a 95/5 rye, I was expecting a bit more spice on the aroma. Instead, a nice balance of citrus, dark fruits (plums and blackberries) and rye and hay. As it oxidizes, slight cinnamon starts to come forward along with some nutmeg. The oak presence is outstanding and is the backbone here holding everything in perfect balance. Really well done here.. very inviting. Taste - black licorice comes to mind. Not entirely complex by any means, but this is really well done. The front of the palate is surprising. Tons ofthe usual suspects we see in bourbon.. vanilla, caramel and oak.. The mid palate I’m getting a flash of citrus. The rye doesn’t come until the finish… pepper, baking spices very very slight hint of cinnamon.. Surprisingly light..Medium to thin viscosity.. finish length is medium at best Overall - I enjoyed the aroma more than the taste. This is a very well done rye but I feel that it is slightly over priced. In my opinion, once I enter that $70+ zone, I want something that stands out and makes me remember what I experienced. This one lacks that complexity and uniqueness on the palate. It is very smooth and extremely well balanced… but I cant help to think that Willet 4 year, Rare Breed Rye, Smooth Ambler Founders, Pikesville Rye, Stellum Rye (just to name a few). are all better and less expensive than this.

Brown sugar, vanilla, hint of cherry, and some herbal notes in the nose. Flavor is slightly sweet, a little heat but finishes smooth. Nice mouthfeel. @aboutbeverages