I’m a big fan of Rowan’s Creek. I’ve always considered this to be its very slightly older brother. I know they both used to have age statements, so that statement was probably true at one point. But this now, and this is the Noah’s Mill we’ve got. Here’s to hoping it delivers another victory for Willett. This is from Batch 22-25. Nose: Toasted almond and pecan, as well as the unique pistachio note that I get in some ryes (including Willett’s.) Cocoa, fudge, and caramel. Some dried apricot. Vick’s Vapor Rub. Black cherry. A touch of vanilla and toffee. Pipe smoke and orange peel. Lots of spice. Cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, allspice, and heavy oak. Palate: The pistachio hits heavy, accompanied my toasted almond, pecan, and walnut. Vick’s Vapor Rub. Black cherry. Some Apple cider. Cocoa, fudge, milk chocolate, and caramel. VanillaPipe smoke and orange peel. Barrel smoke, and a fistful of black pepper, with some clove, nutmeg, allspice, and an overhand right from the oak. Finish: Hot as hell. Cocoa. Fudge and caramel. Vanilla. Pipe smoke and orange peel. Dried apricot. Black pepper, clove, nutmeg, allspice, and of course, oak. Long finish. This is a very interesting bourbon. The profile finds itself to be “off the beaten path” in the best way possible. It’s a powerful beast of a whiskey that has few comparables; especially at this price point. A bitter, smokey, spicy affair for certain. But it boasts dark fruit, rich sweetness, and high-octane goodness that should impress even an experienced bourbon drinker. When considering VFM, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better bourbon. This only ran me $60, and this can compete with the Booker’s and Elijah Craig BPs. 4.5/5 for this under-appreciated gem.