Batch 005 is formed around an 8 year old wheat component aged exclusively in new American oak, one of the most marvelous whiskies we have ever worked with. Its vibrance and texture were astounding, resonating with a particular sweet butter note reminiscent of cookie dough. It had the sugary, oily mouthfeel of shortbread fresh out of the oven, caked with distinct minty, tobacco spice. We paired it with a 21 year old corn component aged in ex-bourbon and then transferred into new American oak for 8 plus years. The corn did not just compliment the wheat. It empowered it. The old corn provided a deep viscous foundation which enlivened the mouthfeel further, like putting cinnamon and sugar on buttered toast. At 73% 21 year old corn and 27% 8 year old wheat, Batch 005 is our version of a full-bodied, elegant Canadian wheater.
The nose on Batch 005 is like stepping in from the cold into a warm french bakery, presenting the sweet, nutty aroma of freshly caramelized dark golden brown sugar. There is the lovely creamy tang of Irish butter, mingled with peppermint and sliced pear drizzled with honey. The palate is lively, dancing from buttercream to rock candy to graham cracker. The finish is long and lingering, presenting a gentle blend of crispy nutmeg and earth tones of tobacco, mint and a pine needle forest bed.
Sometimes blending is like actively exploring, venturing into a particular space with a destination in mind. Other times it is more like picking up a trail and seeing where it leads. Batch 005 was certainly an instance of following the whisky as opposed to leading it. The trail led us to an exquisite component, an uncut gemstone that needed polishing and the right setting. We did not construct this whisky. We gently shaped it into a higher form and let it shine.