Rice whiskey? At cask strength? From Louisiana? This bottle had us intrigued from the start. J.T. Meleck Single Barrel might not be the first name that comes to mind in the whiskey world, but they’ve crafted something truly unique with this 100% rice mash bill. It’s sweet, it’s spicy, and it drinks softer than its hefty 122.9 proof might suggest—until the finish reminds you who’s boss.

It’s a fascinating pour that balances dessert-like sweetness with enough spice to keep it interesting. Think wedding cake meets salted peanuts, with a detour through a black pepper field. It’s not your typical whiskey, but that’s what makes it exciting.

Nose

The nose is light yet layered, like a well-behaved kid who you know has a mischievous side. Soft vanilla marshmallow and maraschino cherry start things off sweet, while hints of butterscotch, leather, and black pepper keep it from being one-dimensional. The standout note? Wedding cake. Yes, wedding cake. It’s a little sweet, a little rich, and just fancy enough to make you raise an eyebrow.

Palate

Sour apple and rich dark cherry lead the charge, with an almost creamy, oily mouthfeel that coats your tongue like it’s settling in for a long conversation. Despite the high proof, it drinks smoother than expected—until the spice sneaks in like a plot twist you didn’t see coming. There’s a great balance between the fruitiness and the warmth, making each sip an evolving experience.

Finish

This is where things get fun. The finish is salted peanut-forward with a slight bitterness that creeps in at the end—like the last few minutes of a great movie that leaves you questioning everything. While the proof drinks low, the spice shows up just in time to remind you this is still a heavy hitter.

With Water

A few drops of water turn this into a sugar bomb. The nose leans more into salted peanuts and black pepper but stays gentle, while the palate shifts into full-on marshmallow territory. The finish takes on a slightly bitter “muk” quality—think W.B. Saffle, but not in a way that makes you regret your life choices.

Ratings

  • Dylan: 7.4
  • Scott: 7.5
  • Michael: 7.7