Hard Truth Sweet Mash Barrel Strength (Batch 005), 46.5%

From nose to finish, this is a pepper bomb, with layers of spice making full use of its high proof and extremely high (94%) rye content. The nose opens with cracked black pepper, Tajin seasoning, and gingersnaps. The proof is evident on the palate, though not overwhelming, and delivers a rich blend of cloves, spiced oranges, cinnamon, and more cracked pepper. Water dials in the whiskey’s sweetness, revealing toffee and brown sugar fading to dried herbs and spices.