I received a sample from a friend. Glass: Glencairn, rested for 15 minutes. Color: Light-to-medium amber. Nose: Vanilla and caramel with fruity and floral notes. Palate: Abundant cinnamon and baking spices. Finish: Very long and very hot. The 140 proof is clearly evident. With a splash: This opens up beautifully with a few drops of water. The oak, which was previously masked by the spice on the palate, now comes through with distinct notes of clove and a bit of peanut brittle. Overall: 9.5/10 - Despite this being the highest MSRP ($499.99) of any whiskey I've encountered, my rating is based solely on enjoyment. The light color was initially concerning, and the nose, which began overly sweet, became more floral as it rested in the glass. The palate, initially a spice bomb, transformed into a delightful medley of flavors with just a few drops of water. The finish is incredibly persistent. I would compare this favorably against any whiskey I've rated, without exception. If possible, I would conduct a blind tasting of this against some true rare bottles, but alas, that $500 price tag, if it can even be found at that price.
Barrell Craft Spirits Gold Label Dovetail (2022 Release)
Whiskey World Whisky Multiple Countries No age statement 70.1% ABV
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About this bottle
Barrell Craft Spirits' Gold Label limited edition series showcases aged and rare whiskeys up to 25 years old. In contrast, their Dovetail series blends whiskeys that have undergone finishing in rum, port, and Dunn Vineyards cabernet sauvignon barrels. This bottling merges these concepts, combining whiskeys distilled in Indiana, Tennessee, and Canada, which were then finished in the aforementioned barrels before being bottled at 140.18 proof. It has been available at select retailers nationwide since November 2022, with a suggested retail price of $499.99.
How it tastes
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Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 3 parsed reviews.
The nose offers vanilla and honey, but the taste is an ADVENTURE. The first wave of vanilla gives way to all the finishing casks, with sweet rum, a touch of tartness, and the Cabernet's tannins. It's rich and smooth. A tingling warmth complements the lovely complexity of wood and tannins. Magnificent.
140 proof! A robust Kentucky warmth. Spicy.
Tastes like this
Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.