Barrell Dovetail (123.8 Proof)

This bottle has been open for a while. I estimate I paid around $60, but I'm not certain. The color is lighter than anticipated, a somewhat reddish gold in a glass with no ice. On the nose, I detect Cabernet Sauvignon, which seems a bit dry and dusty, with some bready qualities. There's an underlying sweetness, not thick, but more like white sugar or honey. The taste is quite potent due to the alcohol content, over 60%. Besides the ethanol, there are noticeable baking spices, more honey notes, and some subtle berries that are more of an accent than the main focus. The palate is very drying, leading to a long, warm finish. I enjoy this whiskey, but it's not my favorite expression from this brand by any means.

The nose has a pleasant sweetness, initially showing vanilla and toffee. However, if you linger, it quickly gives way to ethanol. The palate is hot right from the start, trading the promised sweetness for immediate cinnamon spice, but with a little water, it becomes more like pancakes and maple syrup. The long finish lingers, but at cask strength, it only offers the continued sensation of that burn from the palate. Water softens the finish back to that mild sweetness again. Read the full review: https://.com/barrell-dovetail-2019/

Received a sample through a trade. Served in a Glencairn glass, rested for 15 minutes. Color: Medium amber. Nose: Ethanol, caramel, sweet berries. Palate: Abundant cinnamon and baking spice. Finish: Very long and very warm. A pleasant warming sensation from Kentucky. With water: Berries reappear, along with some honey and additional baking spice. Overall: 7.5/10 - A little intense initially, but it becomes much better with a little water.

Smell is quite subtle, with some pleasant honey and oat notes. The taste then hits you with a burst of spice and a thick mouthfeel, rounded out by a rich, creamy, almost cake-like note. A big, minty, rye-forward aftertaste with a long warmth. It's potent, but it's absolutely delicious.

Classic bourbon aroma with notes of caramel, brown sugar, vanilla, and ethanol. The palate presents some upfront citrus flavors and a sweet mid-palate. This is a pretty solid pour. I'm not fond of the price, but the quality is there.

I had to re-evaluate, it's incredible.