* Nose - Plums, figs, and raisin… assorted dried red fruit is perfectly balanced on the nose. Cinnamon and spice behind it. There’s definite traces of ethanol that you’d expect at this high proof, but it doesn’t overpower the nose like you’d expect/worry. Going back after it’s sit a few minutes brings some sweet bread and vanilla pudding. * Taste - First sip is stunning. Cinnamon, dried fruit, and a bright blast of vanilla. Sweet bread, spice cake, and anise on the back of the palate come through strong later on. I can’t place it exactly, but it’s delightful. One of the most beautifully complex whiskeys I’ve ever tasted. * Finish - Long and powerful. I never understood the “Kentucky Hug” so much until I tasted this. The taste lingers and warms your chest. Oh, this is just a lovely winter bourbon. * Uniqueness - Barrell comes up with some of the most unique and finely-crafted whiskey blends in the game right now, and it shows that they’re masters of the craft. A whiskey blend finished in rum barrels, port pipes, and Cabernet casks and becomes… this? Amazing. * Value - I was able to snag this on sale ($75) and I may go back and get a second to save for later. $85 for a bottle is steep for me, but… this is probably the most unique, different, and delicious whiskey I may have tasted in my relatively young bourbon/whiskey journey. (MSRP $85)