William Heavenhill 17 Year Small Batch (10th Edition)

The aroma is powerful with notes of charred oak, cherries, dried flowers, leather, vanilla, and smoke. It's quite intense and full, clearly showing its age. It's truly captivating. The taste is very dry yet rich, coating the mouth with a strong blend of rye and baking spices, dark chocolate, oak, and vanilla. The flavor is very intense yet chewy, with a forward spice profile. This might actually be a good example of a whiskey that would benefit from a lower proof, as there are faint hints of nuanced flavor that are on the verge of emerging. The medium finish is long, spicy, and chewy. It all fades away surprisingly fast, but is highly memorable. At a lower proof, this would be dessert. Still absolutely incredible.

Enjoyed this fresh. It smells of peanut brittle, oak, caramelized sugar, and baked apples with cinnamon and clove. The taste is like strawberry shortcake with vanilla cream, complemented by hints of leather and sweet tobacco smoke from a cigar bar. Sweet oak and subtle honey-roasted peanut with coconut notes appear before the finish. The finish is long and smooth, featuring red berries, dark honey, and a touch of oak. A captivating drink that evolves with time. Cheers!

This was my first time trying any William Heavenhill, and I was surprised by how much I disliked it. It's excessively oaked and spicy, with minimal flavor beyond oak and cinnamon spice. I definitely would not purchase a bottle at retail.

An outstanding flavor experience, though slightly intense. It's remarkably complex and worth purchasing if the price is right.

From Bob Sample in Frankfort, KY