Rare Character Limited Release Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 08

Opened 2 months Nose - Peanut shells, chalk, toffee, star anise, cinnamon, light oak, and moderate ethanol. Palate - Peanut brittle, mineral water, gingerbread, clove, tobacco, and powdered sugar. The finish is medium-long with chalky oak, ginger snaps, star anise, burnt marshmallow, and strong ethanol. This is my first purchase from Rare Character, and I'm impressed! I've previously tried some single barrel selections from local shops priced between $110-130 and didn't find them worth the cost. However, I saw positive reviews for these batch releases and they sold out quickly. Initially, I was underwhelmed. It had a strong mineral/chalk characteristic that felt reminiscent of George Dickel, Bardstown, and Wilderness Trail. After some initial aeration, it opened up beautifully. It's a bit different from my usual preference, but it's well-executed and reasonably priced.