Bernheim Barrel Proof Wheat Whiskey B923

The nose is quite subtle, featuring popcorn, wintergreen, saltwater taffy, tangerine, new leather, honey, and oak tannins. It's a perplexing combination. Ethanol is definitely noticeable and will sting if inhaled too deeply. The palate is a pleasant departure from the nose, offering caramel, buttered corn, chocolate, brown sugar, and a welcome hint of orange/citrus. The flavors are bold, but they also concentrate on the back of the tongue, adding a slight sharpness. The finish is unexpectedly long, bringing a burst of spice with cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cardamom, along with black pepper, dried oak, and burnt sugars. After everything else fades, there's a touch of astringent alcohol burn and a root vegetable note. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied, suitably oily, and complements the profile well. It finishes better than it begins; it's not bad, but there are some drawbacks, notably an ongoing astringency that reduces the overall experience. Given I paid $79.99 (damn mail order, lol), I'm unlikely to repurchase it, and I'd even hesitate to buy it again at a lower price because I can identify better whiskies at almost every price point. It's average.

The aroma is quite potent and rich, with immediate bright notes of burnt sugar and caramel. Vanilla is present, balanced by the earthy sweetness of molasses and brown sugar. It's intense and builds anticipation for the first taste. The palate is dry and viscous, awakening the mouth with a rush of pepper and a spicy cherry syrup, quickly followed by charred oak. Subtle vanilla and caramel sweetness can be found as it airs, but it's largely straightforward. The intensity of the flavors is its distinguishing feature. The finish is long and slightly chewy, with a lingering tingle as the dry oak and sweetness gradually recede.

NEAT NOSE - Pleasant aroma. This smells like lightly toasted wheat bread with cinnamon and nutmeg sprinkled on it, and honey and caramel drizzled over. PALATE - Silky and smooth. Honey, Cinnamon, and nutmeg are the main flavors on the palate. There's a minty finish that is unexpected but not unwelcome. FINISH - Medium length. BUY? - Yes, a great bottle at MSRP. BUY AGAIN? - Not this particular batch, but that's fine. I anticipate seeing how this series of batches develops as this is only the second in its line.

The aroma immediately hits with ethanol, followed by hints of chocolate and mint. The taste is sweet yet spicy, with a gradually increasing burn. The finish is adequate, leaving a lingering earthy aftertaste.