Chattanooga Whiskey Founder's 11th Anniversary Blend

The initial aroma is somewhat vegetal and faintly musty. Subsequent nosings reveal a dry, nutty scent, akin to opening a fresh tin of mixed nuts. With considerable effort, I can detect malted vanilla powder and a whisper of nutmeg. The aromas are intriguing but lack harmony and feel almost jarringly disconnected. The palate is somewhat improved, and the high malted barley content significantly smooths out the intensity and fills in the gaps. Vanilla, caramel, and Demerara sugar emerge initially, and the palate has a pleasing weight. However, it quickly turns hot and sharp, with cinnamon, clove, artificial cinnamon flavoring, and pure ethanol overwhelming the initial pleasant tastes. The barley reappears in the finish, moderating the heat to bring back some sweetness, concluding dry, short, and clean. Even at 50% ABV, this drinks with more heat than the standard 111 Cask at 55.5% ABV, which is entirely due to the 111's exclusive use of their high malted barley mashbill. I'm unsure which two whiskies were used to represent the past and future, but I doubt I would enjoy them individually, just as I don't particularly care for this version of a limited annual release.

Seeing only two reviews, both with 4+ stars, made me hesitant to purchase. However, after a day of consideration, I bought a bottle, and you can see the rating I gave it. This spirit has a well-balanced flavor profile; nothing is overpowering. I would prefer a slightly higher proof, but it's a great addition to one's collection.

Extended finish. Dark chocolate and persistent berry notes. Bing cherry, chocolate, and subtle cinnamon. Truly excellent, glad I finally broke the seal on my bottle.

I wish this wasn't a limited release; it would always be in my collection. Absolutely delicious!

Seems young, but it doesn't sting.