Rare Character The Exceptional Series 11 Year Old, New Oak Cask, Cask #E-M13-825, 2013, 68.7%

this has an appealing fruit-and-spice thread: cherry and orange zest meet black pepper and jalapeño, with oak and chocolate adding a grounding counterpoint. I like that contrast; it keeps the character lively without losing its earthy side. The berry-like tea notes on the finish add another turn, while the citrus and spice tie it back to the palate. A characterful direction for a Kentucky whisky, and an enjoyable set of flavours to explore in the notes.

Reviewed by maple.fox

Nose

Malted barley, Cherry, Oak, Pepper

Palate

Wild cherry, Black pepper, Oak, Orange zest, Chocolate

Finish

Earthy, Orange zest, Chocolate, Jalapeño, Berry-like tea notes