Wayne Gretzky Craftsmanship Series Toasted Rye (55.3%)

This is the fifth release in the Craftsmanship Series from Wayne Gretzky Estates in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. It is a cask-strength rye bottled at 55.3% ABV, made from 100% Brasetto Canadian rye grain. The whisky spent 8 years in ex-bourbon casks, then 10 months in medium-plus toasted virgin American oak barrels. It is deep copper amber in the glass. The nose opens with crème brûlée, vanilla bean and cinnamon, then toasted marshmallow, light oak smoke and brown sugar. The palate is full and velvety, with butterscotch, marshmallow and roasted hazelnut before baking spices and wood tannins. The finish is long and smooth, with vanilla, brown sugar and a little smoke.