Woodinville single barrel bourbon (barrel 4882 bottle 151 - 1010 Washington pick)

Nose: Intriguing from the start, prompting thought. Beyond the typical caramel and wood/oak notes, there's a unique scent, perhaps burnt chocolate or more like red licorice. Later, rye spice becomes apparent. Around a quarter of the way through, I detect oak, chocolate, and rye. I imagine crème brûlée, possibly influenced by the bottle's description. The nose is a complex blend of caramel, licorice, burnt sugar, and oak, with hints of nutmeg and ginger also emerging – quite remarkable. A very pleasing aroma. Body: Medium to full, suitable for its robust character and evident proof. Palate: The initial taste is distinctly different. It evokes a perfect Christmas with its characteristic spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger) rather than pepperiness, making it stand out. The spice is fascinating and not unpleasant. For those who prefer milder spirits, despite its proof, it drinks very smoothly. Finish: Long and flavorful, with length contributing positively to the overall experience. Note: This selection comes from a well-regarded store known for its excellent bourbon recommendations. I was eager to try it. While I don't usually focus on appearance, this bourbon's beautiful dark bronze color caught my eye. It's genuinely good, with the foundational notes of caramel, vanilla, and rye present but overlaid with a dominant and unique non-rye spice. Truly excellent.