Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Specialty Series Chinquapin, 53.5%

The dual influences of a rye mashbill and chinquapin oak barrels are on full display from nose to finish. Aromas of dill are quickly supplanted by caramel, nougat, toffee, and vanilla saltwater taffy. Fruit pops on the palate, as luscious cherry takes off, accented by dark chocolate-covered espresso beans. The finish sees a return to more classic rye notes, but there’s also plenty of barrel char and toasted sugar, making for a first-rate spicy-sweet sipper.