Nose
Art of Alchemy Blended Straight Whiskies Blend 1 starts with a surprisingly mild nose for a whiskey at an $89.99 price point. Initially, I can only pick up light brown sugar and a little ethanol. However, once the brown sugar subsides, the rye spice reveals itself. These two notes merge. Caramel candied nut notes are below the other notes and under mild ethanol. After taking a few sips, the dark fruit notes were uncovered.
Palate
On the palate, Art of Alchemy Blended Straight Whiskies Blend 1 has a little maple, almond, mint, and baking spices. Yes, the mint is evident and is mixed with mild honey sweetness, oak, and a slight saltiness. This whiskey is neither a rye nor a bourbon but a blend of 3-year-old rye (80% rye, 12% corn, and 8% malted barley), 6-year-old rye (51% rye, 45% corn, and 4% malted barley), and 8-year-old bourbon (75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley).
Finish
The finish is relatively lengthy. Art of Alchemy Blended Straight Whiskies Blend 1 arrives at the middle of your esophagus and just hangs out for a while. Black pepper and mint notes are there as the finish goes dry. However, the saltiness of the palate is there on the finish creating a slightly unusual experience.
See Blend 2 Notes.