Ironroot Harbinger - Magic Manna Single Barrel

Second tasting: The aroma presents alcohol and cherries. Dark, with the pits. Some nutty barrel spice is also present. The palate begins with a lovely display of fresh berries, then vanilla cream transitions into earthy chocolate and oak. The mid-palate also has subtle smoke and coffee notes. The finish is fruity, lengthy, and delicious. The final sip of the pour reminded me of the breakfast notes from the original Harbinger. This bourbon is all killer, no filler. First tasting: On the nose, it's noticeably brighter and fruitier than the standard Harbinger barrel proof. Mixed berries greet me immediately, supported by a base of vanilla and caramel. Doesn't smell overly hot, not too much oak on the nose. On the palate, I detect a good amount of heat upfront, but as it fades, I encounter more fresh berries, some floral character, and a bready grainy finish. The mouthfeel isn't quite as rich as other high-proof Ironroot products, which is fine. The finish lasts for a mile. It feels like I mixed the mixed berry V8 V-fusion (the 100% juice kind, not that V8 Splash stuff) with a sweet bourbon and a dash of toffee, and that's what lingers in my mouth for a while. Simply put, it's just great. I like it just as much, if not slightly more, than the original barrel proof.

Regrettably, the worst whiskey I have ever encountered. It requires considerably more aging.