5 | Spirits | Whiskey, $50 to $100, 750 ml

Selected directly from Warehouse H at the distillery, we get to choose our own barrels of Blanton's from a selection first narrowed down by Elmer T. Like Colonel Blanton himself, this whiskey is rich in character, depth, and elegance. A true classic is what we try to pick, one barrel at a time.

A "rendezvous" of 6 year old and 16 year old extreme rye whiskies (95% & 80% rye respectively), this upstart from Park City, UT has a winner on it's hand as Master Distiller David Perkins works his magic with gin, vodka, and brandy as well.

"Brenne Single Malt Whisky is full of fruit-forward and complex-sugar notes; like rich creme brûlée, burnt caramel, bananas, tropical fruits and warm spices like cinnamon and clove. Why? Because we wanted to produce a whisky that embodies the terrior and style of the region in which it is produced: Cognac, France. This is not trying to be a Scotch just made in a different country – this is truly a French Whisky. It is elegant, sophisticated, and perfect in any season."

"..something of a cult legend in Ireland, my guess is that it has the chance to become the same in the U.S.; a dandy example of a pure pot still whiskey."

"The smashing bouquet features delightful notes of toasted wheat bread, oatmeal, black raisins, trail mix, roasted chestnuts, bacon fat, sweet butter, ruby Port and prunes. Entry is peppery, moderately sweet and smoky; midpalate features succulent tastes of dark chocolate-covered cherries and strawberries, honey and smoked nuts. Finishes elegantly and clean, with deft traces of smoke and cocoa." 96-100 pts.

"An abundance of earthy aromas, leather, tobacco with layers of charred wood, dark chocolate and treacle toffee. Full bodied spice front followed by vanilla, honey and dried apricot."