Shortbarrel The Afterswarm Meadowfoam Double Barrel Toasted Honey Cask Finished, 54.3%

The nose calls to mind a fall county fair, bringing brown sugar, caramel-dipped apples, freshly baked apple pie, cherry, and cinnamon. Spices take the wheel on the palate, offering cinnamon stick, allspice, ground nutmeg, pickled ginger, and hot pepper, all underscored by a pleasant honey-maple sweetness. Chocolate-covered chiles lead the finish, joined by more honey, cinnamon, and very subtle flowers. Despite its nearly year-long finish, it’s very well-balanced throughout.