Lock Stock & Barrel 20 Year Straight Rye

Nose: Hints of rum, caramel, and rye. Taste: This rye has a lively, multi-layered profile and is remarkably dry, perhaps the driest rye I've encountered. It's almost a dry rye explosion, distinct from a sherry bomb, with tang, a numbing sensation, pepper, and then a sweet intensity. An intriguing balance. Finish: A tangy, peppery rye burst fades into a lingering numbness on the palate and tongue for several minutes. This rye is unusual and distinctive, in a positive way! I've only experienced such a profile with a scotch. It's definitely not for everyone, but I enjoy it.

Reminds me of soda pops with rye spices, florals, and pecan pie Nose: Cherries, Lavender, Peaches, Vanilla, Root Beer, Cloves, Maple Syrup, Cola, Juniper, Vanilla, Marshmallows Palate: Cola, Cinnamon, Walnuts, Cherries, Milk Chocolate, Honey, Pecan Pie Finish: Pecan Pie, Dark Chocolate, Cloves, Cola, Molasses, Maple Syrup, Red Apples, Mexican Hot Chocolate

While this rye is certainly pushing the boundaries of aging, as a rye enthusiast, I find it absolutely superb. The nose presents oak, pepper, and baking spices, followed by molasses and clove on the palate, culminating in an intense, almost abrupt, dry finish. I understand why some might dislike it, but I remain a supporter.

It smells and tastes like dark fruitcake. There are notes of pepper, burnt caramel, and a slight mintiness. It has a full body and an oily texture, finishing dry. I had hoped to like it more, but it was a bit too intense. Adding water helps.

The aroma brings to mind rubbing alcohol. The palate is oily with a spicy character. The finish is mostly oily, leaving a bit of a burn. It's quite surprising how little it burns going down, given the spice on the tongue.

The nose has a faint vanilla scent. The taste is strong, with an oily texture and a minty Listerine aftertaste. Diluting it significantly improves the flavor, making it seem smokier with a gasoline aftertaste.