A testament to time and craftsmanship, this 22-year-old Heaven Hill Heritage Collection bourbon offers an unparalleled journey into the depths of aged liquid. Drawn from the precise conditions of Rickhouse Y, floors 5 and 6, this small batch release epitomizes the distillery's commitment to producing exceptional, intensely flavorful bourbons that stand the test of time.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A profound and intricate bouquet of dark dried fruits, particularly dates, figs, and old leather, immediately greets the senses. This is swiftly followed by rich notes of heavily caramelized brown sugar, dark chocolate, and roasted nuts, all woven with delicate hints of well-integrated oak spice, antique furniture polish, and a whisper of almond extract. There's an underlying mustiness, indicative of exceptional age, and a faint echo of tobacco leaf, presenting a remarkable depth and maturity.

Palate: The entry is surprisingly soft for the proof, unfolding into a viscous and opulent texture. The palate is dominated by a crescendo of dark cherry and blackcurrant jam, intertwined with spiced maple syrup and rich toffee. The oak influence is substantial but impeccably balanced, exhibiting notes of seasoned oak, pipe tobacco, and baking spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. A beautiful interplay of bitter dark cocoa, espresso, and a subtle brininess adds complexity, while a faint cherry cough drop sweetness emerges in the mid-palate, coating the tongue with an almost chewable quality. Despite its age, it avoids excessive wood bitterness, instead offering a polished and sophisticated oak presence.

Finish: The finish is extraordinarily long and contemplative, lingering with a warm, velvety embrace. It echoes the palate's dark fruit and toasted oak, gradually fading into notes of worn leather, black licorice, and a hint of smoked paprika. The high proof provides a pleasant warmth that radiates from the chest, while a delicate spice, reminiscent of clove and allspice, persists. A final, gentle whisper of vanilla bean and dark caramel leaves a memorable impression, truly showcasing the depth and complexity that only two decades in wood can impart. The tannins are present but rounded, leaving the mouth both dry and surprisingly refreshed.