Whistlepig Summerstock Whiskey

With 'Pit Viper' on the label and a wild stopper, I knew this would be an adventure. The aroma is a bit subdued, but there's an interesting buttery char and that familiar grassy note. The initial taste is soft butter and toasted marshmallow with a spicy kick. It starts smooth and then delivers a burn. Adding a little water diminishes the initial pleasantness and the impact. I'd recommend drinking it neat and appreciating it for what it is. These experimental sun barrels, charred heavily, offer something just the right amount of unusual.

A light aroma with floral, woodsy, and honey notes, plus a hit of pepper and hay that evokes summer. The taste mirrors the aroma with smooth wildflower honey, mild oak, and subtle spice, finishing with a hint of fruit. The wheat provides a gentle softness to everything. Disregarding the sourcing and any stigma, I'm tempted to declare this the genuine and superior Tennessee Honey.

The nose offers honey, grain, and perfume. The body has oat, wood, and licorice. The finish presents paper, cinnamon, and a touch of coffee. These are not the profiles I seek. The grain and oat elements suggest youth, and the finish lacks anything compelling to compensate.

This is a well-made blend. Non-premium wheat whiskeys often taste a bit dull to me, but the rye enhances the character and adds a nice complexity. It drinks like it's higher than 86 proof, so don't let the listed proof deter you from trying it.

A powerful aroma and flavor of caramel and butterscotch. The sweetness is upfront but then gives way to an acetone burn. It's not balanced, and the burn isn't even enjoyable. Syrupy and chemical-tasting. Unimpressed.

This works well as a base for a cocktail, offering just the right amount of sweetness and a smooth finish. It's a mellow blend, but certainly not a whiskey for sipping straight.