This is a blend consisting of 60% straight rye whiskey, 30% XO Calvados, and then 10% are Argmagnac bourbon barrel finish consisting of 1979 and 1996 vintages. On paper a lot going on with this it's not technically whiskey as there is Armagnac in it. The nose is pleasantly smooth, there is distinct rye spice immediately available and at the same time, the Armagnac sweetness immediately comes through. It is very distinct what is going on with this whiskey, you might think it is simply a matter of a barrel finish but the pallet will give up all of its secrets. It is a perfect marriage of whiskey and fermented wine, which is one of the absolute best pairings in the spirits world. The palate is somewhat dry yet full-bodied and chewy. Rye spice immediately coats the mouth all the way into the corners, as a distinct sweetness keeps it nicely balanced. No one flavor is overpowering, rather it is all in wonderful balance. Soft, creamy notes of oak and vanilla present themselves but the real Hallmark of this is it's simplicity. There's not a hundred flavor profiles to explore, instead it's best summed up as rye and Armagnac. As simple as that. You get a great marriage of the two where you get to experience the earthy spiciness of the rye and the smooth sweetness of the Armagnac, blended together. The finish is long, smooth and creamy. The rye and rhe Armagnac really meld together in the end for quite the experience. It drinks as easily as water and is a great example of a perfect coming together.