Wanderback American Single Malt Batch No. 2

Several months ago, I acquired a three-batch sample pack of malts from a retailer. Batch 1 proved to be a rich, robust malt, mature and advanced beyond its two years. Now, for Batch 2! This whiskey is a year older, with the final six months aged in previously used rum casks. The aroma is sweet, featuring berries and pear, along with chocolate pastry. A faint savory note carries through to the palate. Initially, it evoked V8 juice, then a tomato-based stew. This savory note isn't unpleasant in either the aroma or on the palate; it's just a bit unusual. The rum influence is prominent on the palate. While the rum finish doesn't overpower the rich malt characteristics, it does slightly diminish them. The unusual savory note hovers above it all. Batch 2's alcohol by volume is slightly higher than Batch 1's (50% vs. 45%). I'm not sure this is an improvement, as Batch 2 comes across as a bit harsh in comparison. If I had tasted both samples blind, I would have likely guessed Batch 1 had spent more time in the barrel. I completed this review after experiencing this whiskey for the third time. Initially, I found it rather unintegrated. This has improved, and perhaps it's beginning to settle with more air in the bottle. Despite its imperfections, it has started to grow on me somewhat. However, it doesn't quite meet the promise of Batch 1 and is overshadowed by a subsequent release from the same producer, Batch 3. That will be my next review!