Barrell Seagrass Rye, Finished in Martinique Rum, Madiera & Apricot Brandy Barrels

NOSE: Potent yet playful candy store aroma that's filled with childhood nostalgia. Everything from gummy bears, cotton candy, and strawberry shortcake to fruity bubble gum flows out of the glass. This sugar filled aroma is cut by sweeping swings of rye spice providing excellent contrast. It's a tight collection of scents that work well in tandem providing a striking impression. PALATE: A creamy medley of red summer fruits, sugary vanilla molasses, and a twinge of apricot brandy form a club you’ll want to get into. Its unique and striking flavor profile can be rather lavish and challenging at times. It’s the second and third sip where familiarity begins to step in and the whiskey's eccentric collection of flavors begins to click. Equal parts sugary, fruity, and spicy, it is able to come together and work. FINISH: The fruit medley of the palate starts to wear off on the finish, replaced by slight dryness, and additional rye spice and heat. This is where the whiskey’s proof does it a bit of a disservice as the heat can be surprisingly punchy here. A touch of water does the whiskey wonders allowing the flavors to slightly open up while mellowing the heat. Comparatively the finish is a mild letdown after an entertaining ride. ~Nick Beiter (breakingbourbon.com)