Rare Character has been on a roll with their Single Barrel Series, and this latest pick—selected by Liquor Depot and Joy Bar—is bringing the heat. At 130.4 proof and 9 years old, this Tennessee-distilled, Kentucky-aged beast promises a wild ride. With a high-rye mash bill (25%/70% rye), it’s got the spice to back up its strength, but don’t worry—it’s not just a fireball in a bottle. There’s depth, sweetness, and balance, making this one a serious contender for your top shelf.

*This tasting was a fresh cracked bottle; Tasted neat in a Glencairn after a few minutes rest

Nose

Right off the bat, the nose is a blend of rich sweetness and bright citrus. Brown sugar leads the way, backed by a hint of lemon zest, sugar cube, and maybe even a touch of apricot. If you sit with it long enough, you’ll pick up some orange peel sneaking through, adding a nice bit of complexity. For such a high-proof pour, it’s surprisingly inviting—nothing overly aggressive, just a well-layered aroma that gets better with each sniff.

Palate

From the first sip, it’s clear this one means business. Brown sugar caramel coats the tongue before a wave of spice kicks in—not overwhelming, but a controlled, sweet numbing sensation that sticks around. The high rye content shows up with that spice, but it’s softened by burnt orange peel, adding a slight bitterness that keeps it from being overly sweet. Despite the proof, this drinks smoother than expected, balancing bold flavors with a surprisingly approachable character.

Finish

The finish ties everything together with notes of toffee and toasted cocoa powder, blending into a gentle bitterness that lingers just long enough to leave an impression. Black tea notes emerge towards the end, giving it a slightly tannic dryness that keeps it from feeling too rich. It’s a lovely, well-rounded conclusion—bold but not harsh, powerful but refined.

Rating

  • Scott: 8.3