Sonoma County Distilling Co. 2nd Chance Wheat Whiskey (750ml)

"2nd Chance" is so called because the Wheat Whiskey is matured in used rye and bourbon barrels, further enhancing the toasty vanilla notes found in the American oak. This decelerated environment for aging allows the pliable wheat to remain vibrant and distinctive. According to the producers, "...expect notes of freshly baked bread, citrus, vanilla bean, ginger and golden raisins. On the palate, butterscotch, light brine, toffee and orange curd. The finish is viscous and rich, but not sweet. The mouth fills out with a creamy grain quality...this drinks beautifully neat and sings in a classic Whiskey Sour."

Other reviews... ...The mash bill contains unmalted Canadian wheat as the primary grain with malted rye from the UK. Double distilled in pot stills...The opening flourish of aromas includes salted snack crackers, a bevy of dried herbs such as sage, parsley, cilantro, loose leaf tobacco, and Shredded Wheat cereal; secondary whiffs pick up an astringent dryness that’s akin to arid landscape/high desert. Entry mirrors the later stage nose as the acute astringency cleanses the palate first, then allows the biscuity, snack cracker flavor to dominate, with a slightly salty/saline twist that is supple, round, and creamy in texture; midpalate sees the 47.1% abv impact mostly in a warming of the palate that’s not searing or fiery but more smoldering-like and this gives the cereal graininess a chance to emit just a deft trace of sweetness as the midpalate transitions to the finish. A whiskey that gets better over the duration of the analysis. Recommended. 3 Stars.
- www.spiritjournal.com, F.Paul Pacult - March 2017