2021 Bare Knuckle Single Barrel High Rye Bourbon 128 Proof 750ml

A bold testament to cask strength aging, this Bare Knuckle Single Barrel High Rye Bourbon commands attention with its potent proof and intricate flavor profile. Aged for six years, this expression marries deep caramel and vanilla with an assertive rye spice, culminating in an exceptionally rich and satisfying pour. This is a formidable whiskey, showcasing the distillery's dedication to robust, full-flavored American bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A powerful and intricate bouquet immediately emerges from this high-proof bourbon. Initial waves of dark caramel, toasted oak, and vanilla bean are prominent, quickly followed by a vibrant spice character. Notes of cinnamon, black pepper, and clove are balanced by a fresh, almost minty rye influence. Hints of dried fruit – cherry and fig – intermingle with a subtle undercurrent of tobacco leaf and worn leather, signaling its age and barrel strength.

Palate: The entry is robust and full-bodied, delivering an immediate warming sensation characteristic of its 128 proof. Rich flavors of burnt sugar, dark chocolate, and roasted nuts unfold, providing a substantial base. The high rye content truly shines here, offering a peppery spice, rye bread, and a slight herbal freshness that cuts through the sweetness. Layers of dried apricot, orange zest, and a touch of roasted coffee bean add further complexity, all harmoniously integrated by a well-aged oak backbone.

Finish: Long, evolving, and intensely satisfying. The heat gradually fades, leaving a pleasant peppery warmth that lingers. Sweet oak tannins and dark fruit notes persist, accompanied by echoes of baking spices and a hint of charred marshmallow. A final, elegant wisp of mentholated rye and bitter dark chocolate provides a clean, memorable conclusion.