Catoctin Creek – Roundstone Cask Proof Rye Whisky (70cl, 58%)

This is an American rye whisky from Catoctin Creek, bottled at cask proof, 58%, in a 70cl bottle. It is a deep polished copper colour with thick legs. The nose is fairly closed at first and opens slowly, the peppery spirit receding to show rice pudding, leather and mint choc-chip cookie. The palate starts creamy and soft before turning intense, with bittersweet peppered rye, vanilla and mint chocolate. The finish fades to a cough lozenge note, and the whole is sweeter in style.