Redwood Empire Cask Strength Emerald Giant 2022 (Batch 001), 58.2%

There’s a savory, herbaceous quality to the nose, calling to mind tea leaves, dried herbs, and a sprig of mint. Sweeter notes, like Andes chocolates, vanilla frosting, and yellow cake soon join the mix, creating a lovely balance between honeyed and herb-driven notes. The palate takes that sweetness and spice even further—there’s delicious heat on the tip of the tongue, giving way to raspberry-filled chocolate squares, black forest cake, and ripe red fruit. The finish amps up the dark chocolate, with a kiss of berry fruit at the end.