Old Line Cask Strength American Single Malt

I gambled on this cask strength store selection, as I often do when I discover a new American Single Malt. This serves as a prime instance of the emerging standard ASM approach, featuring 100% malted barley spirit matured in new American oak rather than the used oak typical of a UK or Japanese single malt. It boasts massive oak notes, cherry, and leather; considerable complexity has developed in a brief period in the barrel. I have since acquired a local group pick of the cask strength and a sherry cask finished version, so I'm quite convinced by their offerings!

Highly impressed by the potency and depth given its youth. The aroma suggests brown sugar and charred wood. Wood flavors are prominent but a subtle sweetness provides balance. Excellent served neat or with a tiny bit of water.

Nice dark amber color. The aroma has hints of vanilla. With high ABV, it has a nice burn. You can definitely taste the oak. A few drops of water enhance the intensity. Really good stuff for a short-aged whiskey.

The nose is dominated by wood and caramel; the palate is powerful with baking spices (appropriate for the alcohol content) but possesses a pleasant depth of flavor, with grain and vanilla appearing subtly on the finish.

Excellent American single malt! Flavors of toasted oak with charred vanilla/brown sugar. Highly recommended and affordable.

Brown sugar and spice are more noticeable. Sweeter (after a few drops) than the original. Toffee and bran flakes.