Barrell Craft Spirits has way too much time on their hands. LOL. This whiskey-blending company has come up with another finished blend that is absolutely wonderful.
Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Tale of Two Islands blends 5, 6, and 9-year-old Indiana bourbon with 5 and 6-year-old Maryland bourbon. But here's where it gets wild (If that's not enough)! Jamaican Rum is matured in peated Islay single malt barrels. Those empty casks have been used to finish the blend of straight bourbons mentioned above. The result is a wonderfully unique tasting experience that you need to take your time to savor.
Now, I know what you are thinking, "I am not a fan of peat." I hope this review of Barrell's Tale of Two Island Bourbon convinces you that it is a solid must-purchase for any bourbon enthusiast.
Nose
There is very mild peat with creamy candied notes on the nose. It is wonderfully and subtly complex with an occasionally fruity, floral, and dark molasses aroma. Interestingly, I walked away from the tasting momentarily, and when I returned, my workspace was filled with this exquisite aroma. Soft cinnamon spice notes waver delicately below the light, smoky peat, buttercream, and Rum notes. There is mild ethanol, but only on the initial tasting. Later, it dissipates.
Palate
The rich and thick smokey rum notes are also clearly evident on the palate, delivering a nuanced buttery-rich molasses and soft char taste. While there is a smokiness from peated Islay single malt barrels, the peat is remarkably mild. It's more present on the nose than the palate. A slightly buttery mouthfeel with clove and cinnamon baking spice notes once it hits the mid-palate and beyond. The blend of the rum and peat notes is incredibly captivating. Simply put, it is a beautiful combination.
Finish
On the finish, the heat pops on the back of your throat and then maintains heat down the esophagus. The notes you find on the palate are present on the finish. However, the finish is where you taste the rye from the derived high-rye mash bill of 73% corn, 23% rye, and 4% malted barley.