Barrell Whiskey - Seelbach AJ108

The aroma is rich with vanilla, corn nuts, toffee, a hint of raisin, and Whoppers candy, inviting a sip. The ethanol level is nicely subdued for the proof. The palate echoes the vanilla and toffee from the nose, adding furniture varnish, leather, popcorn, and a touch of dried fruit. The flavors are strong but not complex. The finish is intensely hot with abundant cinnamon and significant unfermented alcohol, along with walnut and continued sweet notes of vanilla, maple, and caramel. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied and unpleasantly grainy. It's difficult to enjoy a whiskey that is so aggressive with every swallow. This spirit had potential but was poorly executed. It feels and tastes very young, with the sherry cask aging having a minimal impact. Finishing this will be a challenge. At $80, it's overpriced for this flawed product.