Broken Barrel Reserve Oak Series Finished with Peach Brandy Staves

Challenging to describe neat. The nose is subtly of hard oak, with a bit of dark fruit, leather, earthiness, and a hint of peach. The palate is spicy, leathery, quite oaky, and peppery like cayenne, with an oily texture. The peach influence is minimal in the taste. A significant high-proof burn is present at the start and end, even extending down the throat. The finish is somewhat unbalanced, lingering with spice and pepper, a faint trace of peach on the roof of the mouth, and a tinny quality. With a small melted ice cube, some caramel emerges, alongside continued oakiness. The peach fruit influence in the nose is barely perceptible. Adding ice introduces floral notes to the palate. The water also brings out a turpentine-like, slightly metallic flavor. The high-proof burn remains spicy, peppery, and intense. Honestly, finishing this bottle will take time. It's not a subtle, richly flavored pour that makes you eager for more. This was my Friday evening drink after abstaining all week, and I expected a better profile for the $55 price. While I consider myself a strong amateur, there are superior $55 bourbons available.

The aromas were difficult to discern. Wood and grain alcohol for sure. Is it peach, or am I imagining it? Apple and vanilla. The flavors are present, but it's very hot. Extremely hot. It's challenging to get past this 115 proof. Fruit comes through the heat nicely, still like apple and (perhaps) peach. It's definitely sweet. Then. It. Is. Guess... HOT!

Sweeter oak with a touch of fruit. The alcohol content is definitely noticeable. Lingering finish. Not overly complex and could use a little balance. Good for a beginner's high-proof spirit.

Packed with flavor at a high proof... quite enjoyable.