Nose: citrus, oak, pepper, vanilla. Blanton’s through and through. The palate packs every bit of punch you’d expect from a barrel proof high-rye mash bill. Citrus, oak, and pepper continue, and are joined by a honeyed sweetness that can be found amongst the high proof heat. Strong pepper and oak finish that sticks around just long enough, with a pleasant warmth. The heat doesn’t wrap your tongue the way a Stagg does, but is enjoyable nonetheless. If barrel proof bourbon is your thing, this is highly approachable even without a few drops of water, but it does respond well to a small amount and I would still suggest adding this to bring out the fruity notes. A substantial improvement on Blanton’s single barrel and a top choice in its own right.