Rossville Union 7 Year Barrel Proof Rye

Sampled neat. Appearance: Bright copper with thin legs. Nose: Caramel corn, bubble gum, hints of sweet green grass, and subtle rye spice. Palate: Prominent baking spices like cinnamon and clove, black pepper, and spicy rye grass. Notes of tannic oak, leather, tobacco, strong black licorice, and vanilla. The ethanol presence creates a coating sensation in the mouth. Finish: Tannic flavors persist, with undertones of sour cherry and dried fruit sweetness emerging from the dominant spicy rye and licorice. A tingling menthol sensation lingers in a long, warm, coating finish. Adding an ice cube slightly mellows it, but a great deal of flavor remains. This is a robust, powerful rye that demands attention. It might be excessive and lack balance. It's certainly not for those who dislike licorice or tannins. It will overwhelm inexperienced rye drinkers, but it offers them a clear demonstration of a forceful rye. This is aged Ross & Sqibb, featuring significant barrel char from a high-rye MGP mash bill. I also tried it in cocktails (a regrettable necessity, but...) and it's also excellent. It holds its own with sweet vermouth or amaro, and makes a zesty ginger beer highball. Highly recommended. I also appreciate the new bottle design and label