The Cabinet Barrel Proof American Whiskey (2022 Release)

Rating: 14/23 I've heard positive remarks about Proof & Wood's 100 Seasons. This expression is considerably younger and more affordable, yet I'm still hopeful it will be exceptional. Having just finished chopping and moving large logs, opening this feels appropriate. The wax seal has a cool appearance, but it was quite difficult to remove. The pull tab was insufficient; after considerable effort, I needed a knife to cut through the wax. This detail doesn't affect my rating, but it's something I noticed. Nose: A bitter, tart rye scent mingles with clean water. A layer of spices is present, along with some bitter vanilla and a hint of black licorice. Significant minerality is detected, along with faint light caramel sweetness. Palate: This is rather lacking. It exhibits the common issue with young (though not extremely young) whiskey. There are some pleasant notes that add complexity, primarily rye herbs and spices blended with vanilla. I detect some apple, as well as kettle corn and caramel corn. Hints of leather are present but not very pronounced. Finish: Lingering kettle corn with vanilla and clean water. Licorice contributes bitter and herbal flavors. Conclusion: It's adequate, but I'm quite underwhelmed. It joins the ranks of the uninspired sourced whiskeys flooding the market. While not bad, it's neither particularly approachable nor memorable. I'm leaning towards a 14 at the highest end, possibly a 12, or even as low as a 9. Revisiting it, it's certainly better than Red Line Experimental Barbados (13/23), but not as rich and balanced as Russell's Reserve 10 (16/23). It's definitely a 14 or 15, but I'm leaning towards a 14. It's just too youthful.

The nose is dominated by rye, with hints of dill or oregano. The palate is smooth with vanilla and caramel, backed by a strong earthy foundation. The finish is medium in length, offering notes of oak and more sweet vanilla.