Whiskey Del Bac Distiller's Cut (Spring 2021)

Courtesy of a sample trade of two whiskies from Del Bac. I understand this is made with the un-mesquited distillate. Rich and fruity with a nice oaky finish. I had a small pour of the Private Barrel Dorado next to it to compare. The smoky mesquite of the PB Dorado appeals to me as a fan of peaty whiskey, but this holds it's own with the richness of the sherry cask finish. I'm actually not sure I prefer one over the other, as they're both very good, but quite different. I haven't yet tried their regular strength offerings yet, but I'm really impressed with what this distillery is doing. Not sure how wide their distribution is, but worth checking out if you can find it. Thanks for the sample - look forward to hearing what you think of the PB Dorado.

Nose: Intense sherry notes of raisin and prune immediately upon opening. Caramel and chocolate emerge as it airs out. Faint hints of nutmeg, dry cinnamon, and disturbed dust when I search for them. Palate: Abundant black pepper followed by dark agave, blackstrap molasses, raisins, slick leather, sarsaparilla, and wood – mostly oak with traces of mesquite. Finish: Extended. Peppery sensation lingers with woody notes. Slick and coats the cheeks. Root beer candy notes on the retro-nasal, with a similar numbing effect on the tongue and gums.

Absolutely nothing.