The Rare Character Exceptional Cask Series represents the absolute finest casks available to this wonderful team at any given moment. Hand selected for presentation by Pablo Moix, the series has often surprised those who have taken the plunge and always delivers one of the most unique and delicious experiences available. This shocking lot of barrels will undoubtedly be met with skepticism due to some unfortunate prejudice against West Virginian whiskey and the fancy price tag, but for those who can look past their pre-conceptions, it will deliver one of the most incredible wheated bourbon experiences anywhere. These high wheat mashbills (likely 21% wheat here) are well known to love a big of extra age, which the lower intensity wheated grain needing time to resolve against the tannins of new oak compared to rye bourbons. But at this 10 year mark, this exceptional barrel is simply astounding. Here we go! The color is a deep auburn (1.5). The intense proof is not at all a factor in first nosing even at nearly 66%, instead a deep maple caramel sauce unfolds inside the glass. With some air gingersnaps, molasses, toasted vanilla beans, banana bread, Werther's Original, old leather, flamed citrus oil. This one absolutely loves are and it continue to build density and finesse as it opens. The palate is candied citrus, roasted peaches, maple candies and cherry jam. An exotic wood and strong clove element arrive on the finish. This is supple, juice and a full of life. A tremendous barrel that out classes many of Kentucky's finest wheaters by a wide margin.