Barrell Craft Spirits Gold Label Dovetail (2022 Release)

Received a sample from a friend. Glass: Glencairn, rested 15 minutes. Color: Light-medium amber. Nose: Vanilla and caramel with fruity and floral notes. Palate: Lots of cinnamon and baking spices. Finish: Very long and very hot. The 140 proof is on full display here. Splash: This opens up beautifully with a few drops of water. The oak which had been covered up by the spice in the palate comes through, with distinct notes of clove and a bit of peanut brittle. Overall: 9.5/10 - Even though this is the highest MSRP ($499.99) of any whiskey I've tried, my rating is based purely on enjoyment. The light color was a bit of a concern at first, and the nose that started off overly sweet became much more floral while resting in the glass. The palate, which was a spice bomb at first, became a delightful mix of flavors with just s few drops of water. The finish just won't quit. I'd put this up against any whiskey that I've rated, period. If I could, I'd blind this against some true unicorns, but alas, that $500 price tag, if you can even find it at that price.

Aroma is vanilla and honey but the flavor is a JOURNEY. The initial vanilla hit melts into all the casks it's finished in, sweet rum, almost a little tart, the tannins of the Cabernet, it's rich and just melts. Tingly burn to accent it, but the wood and tannins complexity are beautiful. Magnifique.

140 proof! Great Kentucky hug. Spicy