Cedar Ridge The QuintEssential The Untitled Cigar Malt Project, 57.45%

Alluring earthiness on the nose, with aromas of anise, Moroccan mint tea, dried leaves, and charred oak. The herbaceous experience doesn’t falter on the palate, but it’s well matched by cooked fruit, baked apple, grape jelly, caramel, and vanilla ice cream. This is a hot one, but water does the trick, coaxing out maple syrup sweetness and fresh orange. The finish is perhaps its strongest suit, thanks to flavors of brown sugar, crème brûlée, and baking chocolate.