It’s an interesting blend for sure. The rye kicks in the top notes from the get go, with the sweetness of the corn spirit filling in the lower mid-range. Peppery with a bittersweet cocoa effect, yet with a mellow edge that offsets the heavy rye character. The aftertaste is very much like a cold-brewed black coffee, which leaves the palate with some bitterness. This release to our reckoning is sharply different than the most recent expressons from Barrell. Somewhat austere, yet with a familiarity that sneaks up on you.