Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon 2024 (Batch 1)

The nose is harsh but has notes of charred oak and burnt corn afterward. An initial ethanol impact gives way to a sweeter finish. The first taste is sweet, with higher notes of table sugar, apricot, cherry, and corn syrup, plus a hint of heat. The mouthfeel is watery, not oily. The 100 proof is evident with some warmth. It goes down smoothly, followed by a hot afterglow of very aromatic, almost herbal flavors, reminiscent of anise. While not a very full or heavy whiskey, it remains complex. Ice is likely recommended. Considering its 4 years of aging, it lacks the smoothness or leathery character one might expect. It tastes somewhat young and underdeveloped, but it's by no means a poor choice.

I didn't care for it at the distillery, and my opinion hasn't changed. It has a somewhat unpleasant herbal quality. There's a bit of ethanol, but nothing to balance it. It's just not my preference.