Scorch is a bold experiment whose outcome is far more interesting than the hypothesis could have imagined. The aromas allure: burnt vanilla sugar, a peat fire, dark chocolate, wild thyme, and chile ristra. On the palate, a surprise beyond: tart raspberry, smoky pepper, steamed langoustine, candied orange peel, and suggestions of tar. Morphing on the palate is a double vectored mouthfeel, as if the viscosity spreads out across every surface before lighting to an astringent, charcoal cleanness. The charring deceives, making it hard to believe the spirit is only 46 percent. Somehow the finish is smooth and mellow, sweet and smoky, leaving the raspberry, chocolate, and chili flavors dancing gently. I’m glad to have partaken in this discovery, shared with Charles in gratitude for his helping me paint a new home.