BHAKTA 1928

This is a blend composed of 60% straight rye whiskey, 30% XO Calvados, and 10% finished in Armagnac bourbon barrels from the 1979 and 1996 vintages. On paper, there's a lot going on, and it's not technically whiskey because it contains Armagnac. The nose is pleasantly smooth, with distinct rye spice immediately present alongside the immediate sweetness of the Armagnac. It's very clear what's happening here; you might think it's just a barrel finish, but the palate reveals all its secrets. It's a perfect marriage of whiskey and fermented wine, one of the best pairings in the spirits world. The palate is somewhat dry yet full-bodied and chewy. Rye spice immediately coats the mouth, even in the corners, while a distinct sweetness keeps it nicely balanced. No single flavor dominates; it's all in wonderful harmony. Soft, creamy notes of oak and vanilla appear, but the hallmark of this is its simplicity. There aren't countless flavor profiles to explore; it's best described as rye and Armagnac, pure and simple. You get a great blend of the two, experiencing the earthy spiciness of the rye and the smooth sweetness of the Armagnac, combined. The finish is long, smooth, and creamy. The rye and Armagnac truly meld together at the end, creating quite an experience. It drinks as easily as water and is a great example of a perfect fusion.

It's important to mention that our group created two custom blends of 1928 last fall at Bhakta. One of those I brought to a gathering with some high-end bottles, like a Stagg Jr pick, and the 1928 was the top or second-best bottle for most people at the share. Regarding the standard 1928 you can buy, it's definitely a superior spirit. There's enough complexity to please almost any drinker. The Calvados and Armagnac used in the blend add a great deal to this rye. It's very easy to drink. It's certainly a great bottle to have on hand; I feel it offers a lot for what I consider a lower price than I'd expect. All the bottles, standard 1928 and the two blends from Bhakta, were around $70.00. For the blends, I would add 0.25 points = 4.5/5. The main difference lies in how many different Armagnacs and from what years comprise the 10% Armagnac in each blend. One blend we made used two Armagnacs, the other used four distinct Armagnacs. Also, the Calvados is XO – perhaps that's standard in all 1928s? The blends were excellent. It's also important to note that if someone with a similar flavor profile to yours selects a barrel at any distillery, you will likely enjoy it even more – not all flavor profiles and not all barrel picks are created equal; it's all subjective.

A blended spirit made with 2018 Straight Rye Whiskey, complemented by 30% XO Calvados and French Armagnacs from 1928, 1941, 1962, 1973, and 1996. It comes in at 50% ABV with an average age of 15 years. Its initial aroma presents grain, wood, fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices. The palate develops with apples, custard, caramel, vanilla, anise, and mint. The finish is lengthy and warm, featuring pepper, oak, rye spice, cinnamon, mocha, tobacco, and rancio.

Update: Okay, yes this tastes a bit boozy. It's only 60% whiskey blended with calvados and armagnac, but the chocolate orange notes are incredible. (There's also supposedly some armagnac from a 1928 cask, but not enough to notice.) Back to 4 stars:) First impression: apricots with a spicy finish. I'm not sure I'd identify this as a whiskey if tasted blind, and definitely not a rye. Fans of Barrell Seagrass should love this.

Day No. 2 This one is right up my street. The vintage barrel aging provided a complexity that really makes you pause. The nose begins with a blend of butterscotch, dried fruit, and a hint of smoky wood. The palate perfectly echoes these scents, presenting a sweet and spicy vanilla custard. Notes of oak and leather provide a full finish that leaves you with a pleasant warmth.

Brown sugar, salted caramel, dry oak, mild mint, some light fruitness akin to apple or pear, mild citrus and pecan. the finish brings forth more oak, mild rye spice, dashes of fruit and orange peel. this is definitely an interesting blend, and well worth the price. I find it exceptionally easy drinking for 100 proof but also has enough complexity to keep you entertained.