Tri State rye from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana brought to you by Barrell products. This nearly 120 proof rye should be bold and flavorful like it’s bourbon brother. Color - deep gold almost an amber like appearance, looks thin but the legs run pretty viscous. Nose - bright, golden pear, cedar, honey, and baking spice cinnamon and and apple notes (baked pie) are deeper into the glass. The nose was not overwhelming or strong but it was pleasant. Palate - spicy spearmint, honeyed wood, cedar and cinnamon tingle your taste buds. The flavor is bold but on the dry side, the finish is thin but lasting, the liquor is slightly viscous and very acidic the heat from the barrel strength lingers on your palate long after the taste has dissipated. The lasting finish is mellow but pleasant, honey, cedar, weathered leather and mint fairly balance but fairly pleasant. The Stellum rye is a true follow up to the bourbon counterpart, at times its bright and exhilarating, mellow yet complex, while it doesn’t bring out the sweeter taste it’s complexity makes up for it. This serves as a decent grab at its price range but leaves a bit to be desired as some small batches or single barrels in this price range feel more complete and well rounded, but this is a great intro into the barrell offerings. - the scotch guy