Broken Barrel Cask Strength Port Cask Bourbon

Nose: Grapes and bright, fruity red wine are the initial notes, balanced by oak and dark chocolate. Sweet caramel appears toward the end. At times, a fleeting chemical aroma (bleach, swimming pool) is detected. Dilution transforms the chemical note into more of a citrus scent. Palate: Sweet, spicy, salty, and subtly bitter. Initially, the texture was very thin and almost vanished on the tongue. Upon a second tasting a week later, the texture was typical. Citrus (orange zest) at the entrance gives way to raisin and other dark fruits. A pleasant spice follows swiftly. Adding water seems to enhance the citrus and allows a sweet caramel note to come through. Finish: Short and warming due to the high alcohol content. Notes of raisin and cacao nibs, including their bitterness. Water introduces sweetness (caramel) and a gentle bitterness to the finish. When the bottle was first opened, it was somewhat disappointing; the nose had a distinct bleach-like chemical scent, the palate was thin with little flavor, and the finish lacked distinct characteristics. Returning to it a week later, the chemical notes on the nose receded, the palate developed a more standard texture, flavors became more pronounced, and the finish offered more discernible notes. This has certainly been one of the most significant transformations for me.

Deep, complex aroma. Port scent comes through strongly. Wood and port flavors hit first, enhancing each other quite well. A huge proof burn follows, but it works well with the darker flavors. Good richness; more would have extended it a bit further. Still very pleasant.

Evokes memories of blending blueberry and strawberry flavored oatmeal packets as a child. A pleasing harmony of sweetness and warmth from the 116 proof.