Broken Barrel Rare Americana

This needs some air to open up. The nose immediately shows Sauternes and some heat from the high proof. After 15 minutes, there's a good amount of caramel corn, and the sweet wine recedes. The palate hits with spice and charred oak. Honestly, it's a bit too much, rough with the spice, oak, and high proof. Adding water tones things down. The caramel corn from the nose returns, and I get the Sauternes again. I'm not sure it works well, adding more sourness that feels out of place. Overall, it's not bad, especially for the $35 sale price, but I wouldn't be happy paying the regular $70. The nose is the best part, but it declines from there. Update: This has improved with each subsequent dram. The nose is definitely the highlight, leaping from the glass. The finish is very long, and the bittersweet spice and sourness is distinct but growing on me. Update 2: As the bottle nears empty, it's less appealing. It's hot and unbalanced. There's still an interesting mix of flavors, but it's not one I reach for often. Lowering the score. It's interesting how opinions can change while finishing a bottle.

Friday evening, time for a tasting. I decided to try this sample from the pile. I was familiar with the brand, but not this particular offering. Nose: It immediately presents as musky, like aged books in a leather-bound library. As it airs out, notes of white grapes and cornmeal emerge, along with a generous amount of vanilla bean. Patience is rewarded, as the aromas deepen and sweeten, revealing hints of root beer, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Palate: The high proof numbs the tongue slightly. Dominant flavors include dark caramel, butterscotch, and white pepper, with leather and oak providing support. With Water: Adding a bit of water sweetens the drink, bringing out more butterscotch and sharpening the peppery spice. Finish: Dry and spicy with oak, subtle hints of vanilla and cream. Overall: I hadn't heard of this whiskey before this tasting. The nose is very inviting, rich, and draws you in. The palate expands on the nose, and a touch of water enhances it further. Quite enjoyable. Thanks to a friend for the sample. [86/100][Tasted: 4/26/14]