The nose has big wafts of butterscotch candies, bruleed sugar top and fresh raspberries.

The palate is chewy and creamy with lots of caramel, but isn’t shy about the baking spice either.

The finish is long and sticky, giving nods to chocolate croissant, heavy dark cherry syrup, and walnut. The longer linger has beautiful oak notes if you are patient enough between sips.

About: The Old Pepper Distillery, with its storied past and DSP-KY-5 designation dating back to 1780, holds a captivating history within its walls. Founded by James E. Pepper, a distilling legacy spanning generations, its legacy endured until 1906 with his passing, only to face closure in 1958 amid adversity. However, in 2008, a resurgence ignited when Amir Peay of Georgetown Trading Co. took the reins, reviving the brand s essence. While initially reliant on sourced whiskeys from MGP, a recent shift toward proprietary distillation marks a pivotal transition. Enter the James E. Pepper Single Barrel Bourbon, a testament to craftsmanship with its distinctive mash bill featuring 12% malted barley and 8% malted rye, lending a nuanced sweetness and remarkable balance. Despite its mere 4-year aging, this cask-strength gem defies expectations, boasting a traditional yet refined profile bursting with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. As the company s aged expressions like the James E. Pepper Barrel Proof Decanter Bourbon hint at the promising future, it s clear that the legacy of this historic distillery is poised for a triumphant resurgence.