2XO Gem of Kentucky Single Barrel, 54%

2XO, or Two Times Oak, is from Dixon Dedman of Kentucky Owl fame. This one is a high-rye bourbon with 35% rye in the mashbill that's re-barreled into charred new oak barrels for a year—hence the Two Times Oak name. Very earthy on the nose with rose petals and red berries. Sweet on the palate but balanced. It carries its proof well, with good length and sweetness, anchored by earthiness and oak.