The Widow Jane: The Vaults 15 year known for their self-renewing water sourcing that’s naturally filtered through limestone in underground caverns which enhances the flavor and aroma of their spirits. For the vault, it is a handpicked selection of the oldest and rarest of the widow Jane stock. Head distiller Lisa Wicker is the master blender who ages the spirit in Appalachian oak casks for 5 years. Color: deep amber in color, with a nice sheen when held to light. The oil streaks or legs are welcoming and visible—slow running is a testament to the “oily” structure which should transfer in a long finish. Aroma: very intense and easily detectable at 6” from the glass. Notes of cherry and vanilla are present at the top with a delectable spice note nutmeg/cinnamon. Deeper notes near the rim show the characteristics of the barrel—and a slight bright burn of citrus leaps through. Palate: intense levels of spice come forward, notes of woody influence taper it off and a complex finish is pleasing. Mid palate is warm and acidic with a mid-heavy body, the finish is ripe and pleasant with notes of burnt sugar or vanilla linger on the tongue well after for a long rewarding finish. The citrus goes mostly unnoticed and a few tastes in I began to notice its subtle influence as a transient clean feeling just before the finish—exquisite. The pour is highly rewarding, at times the intensity from the Appalachian oak and the spice levels can be a bit intimidating, but the finish is so welcoming and long lasting it sticks around long after you put this away. The aromatics are equally intense and quickly prepare you for what’s in store—it’s hard to not love this drink as it continues to challenge and surprise you drink after drink. —“the scotch guy”