2019 Town Branch Unfiltered & Barrel Proof Straight Malt Whisky 120.5 Proof 750ml

A testament to innovative aging, this single barrel Town Branch Unfiltered & Barrel Proof Straight Malt Whisky spent over a decade maturing, finished in distinctive Oloroso sherry casks that previously held red wine. Delivering a powerful yet smooth experience, this expression offers a complex symphony of chocolate, plum, and oak, culminating in a memorable finish. This is a rare opportunity to savor a unique Kentucky malt whisky that pushes the boundaries of traditional flavor.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A rich and complex aroma immediately announces its presence, dominated by the stated chocolate and oak. Deep dried fruit notes of plum and dark raisin intertwine with a sticky molasses sweetness. A delicate whisper of vanilla adds a familiar bourbon warmth, while a subtle hint of red wine from the sherry cask finish peeks through, adding an intriguing vinous quality.

Palate: The entry is robust and full-bodied, a direct consequence of its barrel proof nature, but remarkably well-integrated. The chocolate and oak from the nose translate into a palate of dark cocoa, roasted nuts, and a delightful char. The plums and molasses expand, offering a decadent sweetness that is beautifully balanced by a subtle tannic grip and a whisper of peppery spice, likely from the malted barley and high proof. The influence of the Oloroso sherry casks is evident, imparting notes of dark dried fruits, leather, and a nutty, savory complexity. The 'red wine aged' sherry cask adds a layer of dark berry and a slightly earthy, vinous character that elevates this malt whisky beyond a typical bourbon profile.

Finish: Long, smooth, and incredibly satisfying. The initial warmth of the high proof gracefully subsides, leaving behind lingering notes of dark chocolate, toasted oak, and sweet vanilla. The dried plum and molasses notes persist, slowly fading into a delightful interplay of nutty sherry and a hint of dark fruit. The smoothness mentioned on the label is certainly present, making this a truly contemplative and enjoyable dram.