Ampersand Malus American Rye Whiskey and Apple Brandy Blend, 46%

Another esoteric experiment from Chip Tate, this time blending 51% rye whiskey and 49% calvados, a French apple brandy. Apple is the focus here, showing up as cider and baked apple doughnuts on the nose, and Apple Jacks cereal on the palate. The finish adds a bit of spice with cracked pepper, cinnamon, and oak. The calvados completely drowns out the rye, resulting in a one-dimensional blend that, while appealing to brandy lovers, might turn off whiskey aficionados.