Redwood Empire Cask Strength Pipe Dream (2022 Release)

This medium amber pour has a very pleasant and quite interesting nose. The rye offers more kick than anticipated with some nice spice notes, and an inescapable floral/herbal/hay-like character. Classic bourbon notes are present, with vanilla leading the way. I find water has little impact on the nose, which is somewhat surprising as it isn't very intense for a high proof spirit, although not subdued either. The flavor is also good... before adding water, I detect many fruits - especially orange, along with some wood, grass, and hay... and after some water, a very intense nutty component emerges. Considering how little water affected the nose, I see much more develop in the flavor... but I can't say it's better (or worse) after adding a small splash. It's quite oily on the palate... perhaps I'm associating it with the pine trees on the bottle. This drinks very close to its stated proof... maybe a little lighter, and I actually found it to be a very approachable pour even before adding a few drops of water. It's a slightly dry whiskey and a nice pour overall...

My local liquor store had one of these left, and I decided to pick it up despite never having tried the original Pipe Dream. I am always very skeptical about these new distilleries, but after hearing good things I figured why not. Smell: remarkably strong vanilla - very sweet and pleasant. Hints of citrus. Taste: hot and sweet with sour green apples, spicy citrus, and cherry wood Aftertaste: cinnamon, orange, spice, and oak Overall: This is a very unique and delicious bottle! Can’t speak for the regular expression, but the cask strength is very exciting and fun. I will be going back to pick up the regular bottle since this one was so delightful. Not the smoothest sipper out there, but I would recommend if you are looking for a cask strength that is interesting and unique.

Nose- A powerful butterscotch aroma, reminiscent of those iconic gold candies. It's so pronounced, no further description is needed. Taste- A remarkable explosion of caramel and vanilla, like consuming liquid bullseyes. It has a noticeable alcoholic presence but without any harsh ethanol notes. This is a spirit that could easily lead to overindulgence. Finish: Its only weakness might be here. Some rough aspects are quickly smoothed out with a few drops of water. Straight, it's a bit intense. With water... peanut butter notes emerge! Overall: A superior drinking experience. Acquire it if you have the chance! Water refines it. It stands up to top-tier releases. A hidden gem.

Nose: Apple and Vanilla - Hints of Citrus. Very distinctive nose. Palate: A burst of heat gives way to green apple and okay. Minimal oil and a buttery mouthfeel, unlike the regular Pipe Dream. Finish: Orange, cinnamon spice. Thoughts: Quite good! Unique, but I wouldn't pay secondary market prices for it.

Lots of herbs when drunk straight. Becomes a more pleasant taste with a bit of water or an ice cube.

Envisioning a tasting room on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.