Balcones Single Malt Single Barrel European Oak Finish

I'm very new to whiskey but I'm becoming a convert from enjoying years of fine red wine. So here it is: I went to Total Wine looking for a highly rated whisky other than BTAC. After reading some reviews regarding the Balcones Texas Single Malt I was ready to make my purchase but I still had some hesitations. I went to my local and favorite liquor store JAX fine wine and spirits and BOOM! Just in... a Balcones Texas Single Malt Whisky SINGLE BARREL selected by SHORTBARREL 45 mos in oak. Only 3 barrels in GA! Now, can we say- "NO BRAINER!" My first pour was so disappointing! It was harsh, high 65.8 ABV OVERPOWERED any distinguishable flavors. I felt like I was ripped off. I revisited the bottle again after a week and still felt the same. High PROOF, a licorice taste. Two weeks later... I had a glass of red wine and thought I would give the Balcones another try. Heaven!!!!! Somehow, the bottle needed some breathing/ aerating very similar to a fine red wine. I am in LOVE! I have never had a whiskey that could pair so well with red wine. I taste raisins, caramel, vanilla, toasted almonds... just plain SWEET GOODNESS!!! I went back to JAX and purchased 2 more bottles. Shhhhh.... I think this is the BEST KEPT SECRET.

Nose: heavy malt, slight lemongrass, sweet raw sugar, dry apple, apricots, light floral rose petal, maple Taste: heavy oak, pancakes with maple syrup and raspberries, chocolate, lemon / citrus. Water brings out the herbal nature of sage and parsley. Dark fruit like apricot and raspberries. Really dry. Lemon and sweetness gets buried but is there. Very spicy flavor of pepper and chilies. Not for the faint of heart. The ABV is even more than some Stagg jrs.

My first time trying Balcones and I am impressed this is an excellent American single malt- not too heavy, not too much spice, light fruitiness to balance then finished well!

Sorry still enjoying the long silky malt and maple finish.... Let me get back to you