Distilled by an undisclosed producer, this batch features 6yr, 9yr and 12yr Kentucky bourbon's blended and then finished in a variety of casks. This is chapter 1, and features finishing in Tawny Port and Dark Rum casks.
Powerful nose. Heavy tannin, decadent caramel, tannin, cocoa, oak and sweet wine character. Raisin bread, tobacco, sweet cream and a maple note.
Rich on the palate. Viscous, powerful, there's no denying the oak influence and the finishing casks. Port works well here, imparting blackberry, cherry, toffee, and raisin bread.
Long finish, the finishing barrels respect the core whiskey here, working together. Maple, Luxardo cherry, honey comb, waffle cone and rich tobacco. Reminds me of a box of my favorite cigar: Padron 1964.
Overall, this is quite impressive. Tawny port and rum can both exhibit strong flavors, potentially capable of burying a bourbon's nuances, but that's not a concern with the first chapter of this release set. Bold, flavorful, harmonious. Also: delicious. Well done.
7
Disclosure: The producer provided this sample to review free of charge, and without expectation of review or rating.