Jaywalk Rye Heirloom Single Barrel (Roc Elite)

The smell hits you instantly with spicy floral rye, charred oak, pepper, smoke, and a hint of brine. It's very robust and powerful, and it softens over time as you adjust to it, not the other way around. Frequent smelling lets you get past the spice to what lies beneath. There are hints of vanilla and caramel, and maybe the faintest touch of fruit. Regardless, it's absolutely amazing to experience. The taste is smoother than anticipated as you swirl and savor its richness, but then your mouth fills with a controlled burst of rye spice as you swallow. It has a slight, unidentifiable funk, clearly from the rye grain, which adds a nice layer of flavor to an already fantastic experience. If you search for it, you'll detect some sweetness in the background, but it's not really necessary. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving your mouth buzzing and warm with lasting notes of rye spice and that funk. A truly delicious and distinctive rye, with an almost old-school character. A great one that will be missed.