A little background
Chattanooga Whiskey broke the mold with their newest release of Tennessee’s only High Malt Whiskey. This straight bourbon whiskey can be found in 91 proof for $34.99 or at cask strength (111 proof) for $44.99. The 91-proof high malt whiskey was made with a mash bill of yellow corn, malted rye, caramel malted barley, and honey malted barley. The combination of three specialty malts, an extended seven-day fermentation, a four-grain mash bill, and the solera barrel finish make this Tennessee High Malt Whiskey pleasantly unique and complex.
(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)
Color
Deep Amber
Nose
The nose was complex and released many notes as the whiskey rested in the glass. The initial nose was sweet and spicy. Notes of corn, malted barley, and black pepper were present. After 10 minutes in the glass, cinnamon, clove, and allspice notes were present.
Palate
The first sip was pleasantly spicy. The top of the tongue was coated with rye-spice heat with a myriad of flavors concentrated in the back palate. The second sip revealed a medium bodied viscosity that coated the entire mouth with the same punch of the first sip. Several flavors emerged including the sweetness of malted barley, corn, honey, dried fruit, and black pepper. The third sip progressed to notes of honey, tree nuts, and toasted marshmallows.
Finish
The finish was long and lingering with rye-spices and sweet malted barley. This combination was complex and enjoyable. A faint clove note became present as the finish began to fade.
In conclusion
Chattanooga Whiskey created something special when they hand-crafted the first Tennessee High Malt Whiskey. The flavors are complex, delicious, and will have you drinking more than intended. This straight bourbon whiskey will be favored by those who enjoy lingering heat and sweet malted barley. The nose is enticing, the palate is complex, the flavors are bold, and this Tennessee High Malt Whiskey is delicious.
Note: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Chattanooga Whiskey. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review this wonderful whiskey!