This rye from Ezra Brooks punches well above its attractive price point of $25. On the nose, the whiskey is rich and spiced, supported by a pleasant earthiness of leafy greens and menthol. Warming vanilla and toasted grains envelop prickly black pepper, sharp cinnamon, and flinty graphite aromas. With each sip, layers of lemon, orange, honey, and raspberry iced tea unfold atop the whiskey’s dry, peppery base, creating excellent balance. The finish introduces dark chocolate and sea salt, milk chocolate, and lemon ice alongside one last kick of big peppery spice. —Shane English