High West A Midwinter Night's Dram Act 12 (All Scenes)

Almost. Almost there…but probably all future releases will always be “almost”. What I mean is if High West Midwinter is back to its early Act 2 and 3, which were amazing, and set the stage for this brand as its annual flagship product. When Act 2 came out, at a mere $60, I was floored. It took me back to spice markets in Jodhpur and Morocco, back to the orange-lined streets of Seville. But after act 4, it all fell apart. They raised prices from $60 to $80 to $100, and now anywhere from $130-300. All the while, lowering their quality. Less Jodhpur, Seville, and Morocco. More big corporate America. And every year, I have purchased this. Provided if and only if I can get it under $130. And every year, I’ve been disappointed. Except this year. Yes, it’s not Act 2 and 3, but it’s the best (in my humble opinion) since act 4. That’s 8 whole years!! This is best enjoyed when it’s cold outside, and you’re sitting by a warm fireplace. Notes of mulled wine, and then flavors of plum, allspice, and cinnamon. A bit more plum than previous years, and that’s a good thing. If you can find this anywhere around $120-130, it’s a worthwhile buy to open up with friends and family over the holidays.

Smells like: cherry, brown sugar, cinnamon, amaretto Taste: reflects the nose with strong amaretto and nutty notes. This is my second time trying this. My first time was in a bourbon bar. This time is from the first bottle I've actually found in a store. This is a quality whiskey. However, I found the first expression much more complex and unique. This expression is fairly straightforward. It has similar flavors to most bourbons. It's tasty but I'm a bit let down for the price I paid.

I'm fortunate to have Act 9-12 now. Opening this bottle and trying it neat. The aroma is heavenly and reminds me of autumn - warm and comforting. It has notes of sherry, caramel, brown sugar, spearmint, clove, cinnamon, oak, figs, cherries, apple, crème brûlée, dates, apricot, candy apple & candy apple… very fruity and I'm thoroughly enjoying it. On the palate, it's slightly spicy yet smooth with notes of caramel, mint, clove, cinnamon, and a hint of plum.. a lot of spice and it's wonderful!

The aroma is loaded with dark fruits, cherry, plum, and berries. The taste is very fruity with warming spices. It has some port notes (I wanted more). It's very smooth and has moderate complexity for its proof. More flavors emerged as it sat. An excellent winter drink.

Cranberry juice, dark berry pie, port wine, cinnamon undertones with the fruity rye emerging due to the barrel influence, leather, raspberry jam, with the rye, oak, and wine influence all competing for attention

This has the expected spice of a rye and a strong port finish. It's a decent bourbon, but not worth the price. Note that I am not a fan of port finishes, so this bottle will not appeal to me.