Wenzel Distillery Toasted Barrel Proof (Batch #01)
Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskies
55.9% ABV
$99
Website
We would like to thank Wenzel Distillery and The Whisky Bard for sending us a sample to review.
What the Distillery Says
This blend of straight bourbon whiskeys, aged at least 8 years (mash bill: 69% Corn, 21% Rye, 10% Barley), is finished for 6-8 months of that time in brand new Kelvin Cooperage toasted barrels. A refined experience that’s perfectly balanced and lingering, it boasts a nose of hay and honey, delivering a honey-sweet taste that fades into a soft, subtle sweetness.
What Gary Says
Nose: Salted caramel, toasted oak, brown sugar, nutmeg, hint of clove, honey and cocoa.
Palate: Bitter dark chocolate, honey, caramel, cinnamon, cocoa, pepper spice with cloves.
Finish: Moderate in length, drying with oak, baking spices and honey.
Comments: Compared to the Wenezl Wheated, the rye stands out although I did find this a bit hot on the palate for the proof (although the toasted finish may also contribute to this). A bit of water opens this one up nicely bringing a musty rick house note on the nose (with a touch of fall leaves), and adding a creamy mouth feel dimension on the palate, with notes of dark fruit (figs) and chocolate, as well as tamping the spiciness just a bit.