Nose: A symphony of black cherry, natural vanilla, cinnamon sugar, and barrel char leads the way, deepening into earthy tones of packed soil and gravel. It evokes the ambiance of an old rickhouse, where earthen floors meet aging oak barrels. Subtle notes of brick-oven charred pizza dough and bitter gentian root add complexity, balanced by lingering cinnamon sugar. A faint minerality evolves into a sandy beach essence.
Taste: Bold yet gentle, with syrup-soaked Luxardo cherries upfront, interwoven with oak tannins and caramel sweetness. Dark fruits like ripe Gala apples, dried figs, and prunes emerge, accented by cinnamon and clove spices. A viscous mouthfeel carries these flavors, transitioning to punchy oak and cherry-vanilla cola notes.
Finish: A long, warming "Kentucky hug" dominated by cherry cola, cinnamon, and black and white pepper. Adding water reveals spiced berries, chocolate-covered raisins, and a hint of macadamia honey.
A masterful expression of Buffalo Trace’s craft, perfect neat or with a few drops of water.