Pinhook Single Barrel Vertical Series Rye Whiskey Aged 8 Years

Uncorked pick, "Gallenstein Selection #6" Barrel No. 3026 Age - 8 years 55.7% abv; 111.5 proof Open 5 months Nose - Heavy clove and allspice, cinnamon, burnt rye bread, toffee, brown sugar, pine, tobacco, strong oak, and medium ethanol. Palate - Black pepper, clove, star anise, molasses, oak char, tobacco, and maple. Finish is medium-long with dry oak, black pepper, cinnamon syrup, black licorice, cherry pit, and medium ethanol. I was really excited to grab this pick, but ultimately it's slightly disappointing. In the past year I've bought 6-year cask strength ryes from OKI and The Senator, and I thought this might be a huge step up considering the 2 additional years. It's not. All 3 of these taste virtually the same, leading me to believe you won't find much difference with other 6-8 year MGP ryes. Don't get me wrong, you are getting more value because this is around the same price as The Senator and OKI. But you're not getting more flavor. Honestly I prefer the profile (and the price) of Old Scout 5-6 year ryes. I think they have less barrel char and more fruit and sweet spice notes.