As a barrel proof MGP rye, I already have a good idea of what I am getting into with this one...let’s see if it lives up. Herbal nose with wintergreen, lemongrass, dill, ginger snaps, clove, and biscuit. Nose is powerful with zero (and I mean zero) ethanol which amazes at 112 proof. Outstanding. Palate opens with shortbread cookie, clover honey, butter, hops, and apricot. Flavors are punchy as hell and nicely balanced. Abrupt transition to the finish (normally a sin for me) but somehow works here; Finish is heavy on mint, anise, white pepper, and coriander. Lasts a good long time. Mouthfeel is resinous. The tasting notes above don’t do this justice, because damn this is some delicious stuff. This is no Pikesville or Rare Breed rye; you aren’t going to get warm snickerdoodle cookie here. This is an botanical rye and near the pinnacle of the style for me. I can’t remember if I paid $55 or $65 for this but it doesn’t matter because it’s a hella rebuy either way. Looks like MGP saved some of their good stuff for themselves. Winner.