A little background
Four Gate is at it again with another Kelvin Collaboration release. This time, they are using the same mashbill from their Batch 1 (a 12 year high rye bourbon) and finishing it in both cognac and rum barrels. The rum barrels used to finish this whiskey are from the same distillery as the ones used to finish Batch 1. This was not chill filtered, and bottled at a beautiful 126.4 proof. Four Gate Whiskey Company Batch 6 The Kelvin Collaboration II is available for a retail price of $199.
(Tasted neat from a Halo Glass)
Color
Yellow Gold
Nose
Sweetness is the first thing that comes through on those nose. I can definitely tell that it was finished in barrels of sweeter liquor. I get dark, sticky notes of molasses and stewed grapes, as well as raisins, oak, and a very distinct rum smell. The nose is full-bodied and rich, making for a very nice experience.
Palate
The body is full, and the proof immediately lets the dark notes in this whiskey shine. I get flavors of dark grapes, molasses, oak, and a hint of smoke on the mid palate. I do not notice a big rum flavor per-say, but the dark notes from that and the cognac certainly come into play. The back palate feels every bit of that proof, as well as a good amount of oak spice.
Finish
The finish is long and filled with those dark, sticky flavors on the mid and back palate. Molasses, dark grapes, and a hint of rum are all present.
In closing
Four Gate Whiskey Company does it again with another great batch! I really enjoyed this whiskey and would certainly find a place for it on my shelf. The only drawback is that it lacks a bit of complexity that I’d expect for the price point, but regardless, it was delicious. I love all of the dark flavors in it, and I am glad that Four Gate is working so closely with their barrel suppliers, which not many are able to do that.
Four Gate Whiskey Company Batch 6 The Kelvin Collaboration II
126.4 Proof
