Old Man Winter 18 Year Single Batch Rye 94 Proof

Eighteen years of patient maturation have crafted Old Man Winter Single Batch Rye into an extraordinary expression of aged American whiskey. This rare, single-batch rye delivers a sophisticated palate of dark fruit and polished oak, culminating in an unforgettable, lingering finish. A true connoisseur's pour, designed for discerning palates.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A profound and complex aroma driven by well-integrated rye spice. Dominant notes of dried orange peel, antique leather, and dark cherry mingle with vanilla bean, faint tobacco leaf, and a delicate touch of toasted almond. There's an underpinning of seasoned oak and a hint of mint, characteristic of older rye. The lower proof allows these subtleties to emerge gracefully.

Palate: The palate opens with a surprisingly soft and velvety texture given the rye's age. Initial flavors of candied cherry and stewed plums unfold, quickly followed by a rich burst of baking spices – cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg warmed by a gentle pepperiness. The oak influence is paramount but not overpowering, presenting as polished wood, dark chocolate, and a whisper of espresso. A touch of nutty sweetness, like marzipan, surfaces mid-palate, balancing the spice and oak marvelously.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and evolving, a testament to its 18 years. It lingers with notes of dark fruit leather, sweet tobacco, and a lingering warmth of rye spice. The oak resurfaces with a refined dryness, accompanied by a whisper of black tea and a subtle, satisfying hint of earthy mushroom. It's clean yet robust, inviting contemplation.