Willett Family Estate Small Batch Rye 4 Year

Just a note: This Distiller entry was in reference to the 4 year, wax top, MGP-sourced bottle that could be had for $35 in ~2013-14. It was a pretty good showcase of MGP rye and how tasty it could be even at four years. It is nothing like the Willett distillate that is currently being bottled at much higher prices.

Picked this up on vacation in California, since Willett does not distribute to Oklahoma. First impression: much fruitier than I imagined. Loads of cherry syrup, orange, somewhat medicinal. The finish is really nice - brings a burst of spices and the more classic rye notes. Strong like but not love at this point, but I suspect my impression will change some over the course of the bottle. Update: subsequent tastings have made me appreciate this more. The combination of fruit and spice make this stand out from some of the other ryes I've tried.