Spirit Reviews

92

Dixie Pepper Flavored Vodka ($20)

Six-times distilled in Charleston, South Carolina, this vodka oozes every essence of the serrano peppers and Szechuan peppercorns with which it’s been made. Ready for a Bloody Mary or oyster shooter, it enflames the palate with brawny gusto, an incredible capturing of intensity and refinement in one shot. 80 proof.

88

Elvis Midnight Snack, Peanut Butter, Banana & Bacon Flavored Whiskey ($35)

Honoring the American musical icon with many of his favorite flavors, this whiskey over-delivers on its promise, with effusive aromas and flavors of sweet banana liqueur and caramel popcorn. Dark in color and sweet on the palate, it’s as crowd-pleasing as Vegas-era Elvis himself.

97

Hemingway First Edition Rye Whiskey, USA, 100 Proof ($110)

A magnificent blend of straight rye whiskeys finished in rum-seasoned Oloroso Sherry casks (94% 9-year-old Indiana Straight Rye and 6% 4-year-old Kentucky Straight rye. A nose of rancio, walnut shell, plum skin, and peaches is divine. On the palate, melting caramel is seasoned with a dash of black pepper and roasted espresso bean. The richness placates the senses with a voluptuous, warm mouth feel. It finishes with chocolate biscotti, tobacco, and a brisk burst of cinnamon.

93

Kingsbarns Balcomie Single Malt Scotch, Lowlands ($58)

Matured in American oak sherry butts, this impressive whisky unfurls slowly and deliberately in the glass, with nuance and understated power. Dried herb, earth and a hint of saline complement and contrast with the depth of dark cherry and baked apple. 92 proof.

99

KOMOS Tequila Añejo Reserva, Mexico, 80 Proof ($170)

Aged a minimum of 12 months in French oak and Sherry casks, this first-class liquid is housed in a handmade, white ceramic bottle that is reminiscent of Mediterranean splendor. The nose features the distinction of a high-end cognac and the palate experience is similar to the balanced elegance of a Sauternes, with the earthy depth of mature agave. The resounding flavors of mocha, toffee, dates, and dried apricot march alongside the tingle of white pepper and a vegetal element. It finishes with a deep-rooted woodsy, floral component, so appealing on the finish.

95

McConnell’s 5-Year Irish Whiskey ($35)

Aged five years in Bourbon casks, this 1776-founded, Belfast-made whisky is made from Irish malt and grain. Smooth and refined, it showcases high-toned layers of sweet vanilla, stone fruit and butterscotch, ending in a hint of charred oaky-ness and baking spice. 84 proof.

98

Michter’s 10-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, USA, 94.4 Proof ($185)

Released at its peak maturity, this marks the first release of this single barrel offering since 2021. Well-developed aromas of caramel, saddle leather, and peach pie ignites the senses. Silky mouthfeel, with tangerine peel, torched crème brulée, and a nectar of peach preserves. Prickly white pepper dances around these sumptuous notes. This 10-year-old is a fragrant, opulent spirit.

94

Proof and Wood, Crossborder Jackpot Whiskey, U.S. & Canada, 107 Proof ($79)

This combination of Canadian rye, American rye, and blended Canadian whisky is aged seven years. Viscous and biscuity, it’s perfumed with butterscotch, red apple, dates, and Mandarin orange. On the palate the weight is seductive on the mouth, with luscious notes of banana cream pie, vanilla bean, and custard. The high proof works well in a balanced frame.