Old Fashioned (SMWS)

Blend: 5 Age: 11 years Smell: caramel apple, sweet wine, vanilla, ginger, oranges Taste: a bit 'hot' and peppery with hints of chili, followed by milk chocolate, summer berries, and sweet orange. Subtle floral undertones are present. Finish: More spice, transitioning into a dry, sweet woodiness as it fades. The finish lasts a moderate length, leaving a slightly tart citrusy aftertaste. Overall, this is a surprisingly easy-drinking spirit that stands on its own. It's a touch hot, but the abundance of caramel, spice, citrus, and orange notes, along with a woody conclusion, keeps it engaging. This specific blend has an interesting background. It was created and bottled by SMWS in collaboration with Tempest Brew Co. SMWS supplied ex-bourbon casks, which Tempest used for their Rye Double IPA. After the beer was made, SMWS utilized the casks for a malt blend (previously aged in first-fill hogsheads) to finish for 14 months. As a final thought on this one, it's only fair to mention that I tried it in an Old Fashioned, as intended by its name: 60ml SMWS Old Fashioned blend 10ml maple syrup 2 dashes orange bitters 2 dashes aromatic bitters Stirred with ice Smoked with applewood under a cloche for about 1 minute. Result: It makes a fantastic Old Fashioned! Superior to most bourbons in my opinion and highly addictive!