High West – A Midwinter Nights Dram Act 2 (75cl, 49.3%)

This is the second annual release in High West's port-finished rye series, a blend of Utah straight rye whiskeys in a 750ml bottle at 49.3% (98.6 proof). It was finished in French oak port wine casks and French Limousin oak. Act 2 follows the same idea as Act 1, with port casks adding to a rye that keeps its pepper and grain character. Blend ratios and cask selection are particular to this year. The nose has brandied cherries, Calimyrna figs, allspice, grapefruit zest, French oak and vanilla caramel. The palate brings dark cherry, cocoa, cinnamon, spiced plum, rye spice and port sweetness. The finish is warming, with rye spice, dark cherry, cocoa and lingering port sweetness.