Old Pepper Small Batch Single Malt

A poor entry, lacking much information and featuring a bad photo, as expected. Batch: SM034 Region: Lexington, KY ABV: 50% I sampled this at the distillery recently. While I found it quite enjoyable, American single malts currently available don't quite measure up to their more mature and sophisticated European counterparts. I'm optimistic that this will change in about ten years, but for now, this very young American single malt is intriguing primarily due to its significant peat implementation. I can't recall the exact percentage of peat smoked malt used, as the product isn't listed online and the label offers minimal details, but I remember from talking at the distillery it was a rather small quantity. I also heard it's aged in a brand new barrel, which is a major advantage over European single malts and explains the deep color in the bottle. Furthermore, its 100 proof is considerably higher than the average for single malts across the pond, making it a strong contender on the American scene. The color appears richer in the bottle than in the glass, yet it's a beautiful golden brown, indicative of a freshly charred barrel. Despite the absence of high alcohol pearls, the legs form very slowly. The nose offers a blend of melon, cocoa, wafer/biscuit, green apple, unripe banana, and a touch of smoky, earthy sea spray. The ethanol is perfectly balanced at a medium level, complemented by an overall sugary sweetness layered over the other aromas. The palate begins sweet and rather intense, with a subtle fruitiness emerging. Though somewhat indistinct, it's a pleasant addition before the heat returns. Subsequent sips reveal a briny smokiness that harmonizes well with the ongoing sweetness from the barrel wood sugar. However, the finish remains quite intense, and even a dedicated scotch enthusiast might find it challenging without more aging. It will be difficult for American distilleries to persuade the public that US single malt whiskeys are superior or even equal to European ones, but that doesn't seem to be the objective here. While young grain can often be harsh, this is similar to bourbons from small distilleries rushing to market for quick profit; caution is advised. Nevertheless, the flavor is undeniably pleasant and possesses a distinctively American character, such as the use of a new barrel and bottling at a high proof, which makes this whiskey noteworthy on its own.