BHAWK Sergeant's Valor Select Rye, Batch No. 01, 46.5%

The malted cocoa and toasted oak on the nose appeal to my preference for cocoa and oak, while the subtle herbal note adds another dimension. The palate places bold rye spice alongside cinnamon and clove, with dried fruit, caramel, and vanilla providing a sweeter counterpoint. Spice remains the stronger impression here, which suits my taste, though it may be more assertive than some rye drinkers want. The long, semi-sweet finish deserves attention: rye spice lingers with seasoned wood and white pepper. That sustained close gives the whiskey a clear sense of direction, but the pepper may be a reservation for anyone who prefers a quieter finish. Overall, the relationship between the sweeter palate notes and the lingering spice is what makes this rye appealing to me.

quiet compass21 Jun

The dried fruit is the bit that draws me in, though the bold rye spice and lingering white pepper sound like they’d take the lead. Caramel and vanilla offer a softer counterpoint.

halfmoonrambler19 Apr

That subtle herbal note gives the bold rye spice a thoughtful edge.

AfterglowRadio11 Feb

The unpeated label keeps expectations in check, while cinnamon, clove and lingering rye spice give this a lively, warming direction. Caramel and vanilla soften the edges, with white pepper keeping the finish lively.