This wheat whiskey from Ohio’s Middle West Spirits was first matured in toasted American oak casks, then finished in ex-Oloroso Sherry casks. The nose is full-bodied and aromatic with dried apricots, raisins, and prunes, along with muted spices, orange peel, toasted oak, and a hint of linseed oil. The taste starts off smooth at first with touches of dried fruits, then the spices kick in with notes of clove, black pepper, and allspice. Honey, linseed oil, orange peel, and raisins provide a nice balance and complexity as the spices fade, and last through the finish with just a hint of black licorice bite. (September, 2017)