Description
Aroma
Initial Impression: Prepare for a wave of rye spice that hits your nose right from the start. Black pepper takes center stage, with hints of cinnamon and clove adding warmth and complexity. Depending on the batch, you might detect a touch of grassy rye or even a subtle herbal note, hinting at the influence of the local Texas rye grain.
Deeper Sniffs: As you delve deeper, a touch of sweetness emerges, offering a pleasant counterpoint to the spice. Look for hints of vanilla extract and caramel, influenced by the aging process in charred oak barrels. Some enthusiasts detect a subtle toasty note, reminiscent of the barrels themselves.
Palate
First Sip: The medium to full-bodied character fills your mouth with a satisfying weight. The 100 proof (50% ABV) delivers a noticeable warmth that complements the rye spice. The initial taste explosion is all about the rye grain. Black pepper dominates, creating a tingling sensation on the tongue. Hints of cinnamon and clove add a layer of complexity, while the oak barrel influence might reveal itself with a subtle vanilla sweetness.
Midpalate: As the whiskey opens up, the interplay of flavors becomes more intriguing. The rye spice remains prominent, but the sweetness from the vanilla and caramel starts to emerge more noticeably, creating a welcome balance. Depending on the specific batch, a hint of fruitiness like cherry or apple might appear, adding an unexpected twist. The local rye grain might showcase its influence with a subtle earthy note or even a touch of herbal spiciness, like dill or fennel.
Finish
Lingering Flavors: The rye spice gradually fades, leaving a pleasant warmth and a touch of dryness on the palate. Hints of vanilla, caramel, and black pepper linger alongside a subtle toasty oak character. The overall finish is medium-length, allowing the flavors to linger without being overpowering.
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