Widow Jane Whiskey Distilled From A Rye Mash American Oak Aged, American Oak Cask, Batch No. 40, 45.5%

The orange zest gives this rye an appealing point of definition beside the cardamom and pineapple. Maple and sweet corn take the palate in a sweeter direction, with almond and apricot alongside them. The rye spices are gentle. White pepper in the finish gives that sweetness a firmer close, while shaved oak and delicate basswood bring the wood notes forward. I tend to favour a clearer citrus edge, so the nose speaks more directly to my taste than the palate does. Still, the progression from fruit and sweetness to pepper and oak feels coherent. The gentle spice is part of its appeal, even if I would prefer it to have a little more presence.