The 2025 “Grain to Glass” Rye from Heaven Hill features a Chinquapin oak finish that adds a wonderful layer of complexity - emphasizing the vanilla. Built on a mashbill of 63% rye, 24% corn, and 13% malt, and featuring the Beck’s 6225 corn varietal, this adds transparency to both agricultural specificity and barrel experimentation. The nose opens with a burst of classic rye spice—cracked pepper, clove, and fresh herbs—followed by a wave of caramelized sugars and toasted oak. The Chinquapin oak influence is evident early, contributing a slightly sweeter, nuttier aromatic profile than traditional American oak, with hints of toasted coconut, baking spice, and a faint maple note. This rye strikes a confident balance between intensity and refinement. The front end delivers rich toffee, dark honey, and brown sugar before segueing into a spice profile—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a minty herbal character. The finish lingers with a mix of charred oak, sweet spice, and a slightly dry, tannic edge. Notes of toasted nuts, leather, and baking chocolate emerge late, giving it a contemplative, almost dessert-like conclusion without becoming overly sweet. The Beck’s 6225 corn lends sweetness, and the Chinquapin oak finishing provides a unique twist that distinguishes it from more traditional rye releases. This is a great addition to your collection especially if you are interested in experimentation – in a good way.