Nashville Barrel Company Small Batch Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey

This is my first time tasting a Tennessee Rye Whiskey, and it's a fantastic surprise with lots of flavor! On the nose, I detected strong notes of vanilla, anise, and cinnamon. On the palate, cinnamon and anise were joined by cherry flavors. After adding water, the nose revealed wax and caramel aromas, with the cinnamon still present. The palate then offered more caramel and toffee along with the continuing cinnamon. Overall, it's very good and a great surprise. I'm uncertain about its value; despite being aged 8 years, I believe similar quality and age statements can be found for less.