Barrell Private Release Cask Strength (Batch 1S20), 58.36%

Sugary sweet, the nose opens over a tray of freshly baked sugar cookies, vanilla frosting, cherry-dipped vanilla soft serve, and coffee creamer. Such confection delights follow through to the palate, though more grounded notes of ripe cherry and cinnamon stick give the dram some heft. The finish is hot and spicy, offering up a big kick of Big Red gum, and it goes funky at the tail end with a burst of mustard seed. An unexpected and engaging trip.