High Bank Midnight Cask Barrel Proof

A Little Background

For the past few years, Master Distiller Adam Hines of High Bank Distillery in Columbus, Ohio has been releasing a genius take on whiskey, Midnight Cask. Midnight Cask is their barrel proof Whiskey War that has been proofed down with Tawny port wine and water. Now, a new version of Midnight Cask has been released. This barrel proof version still contains the Tawny port, but has no added water and is aged at least 4 years before being blended and bottled. Midnight Cask Barrel Proof has been being tested for well over a year, and the final result has at long-last been approved. This release sits at 102 proof and sells for $54.99.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Red Amber

Nose

The nose gives sweet notes of stewed plums, cloves, allspice, dark red berries, cracked white pepper, and orange peel. It is dark and sumptuous, it makes me feel like I am about to have a nice, tall glass of mulled-wine that is actually whiskey.

Palate

The palate is thick and filled with deep, dark notes of stewed plums, raisins, orange peel, cracked white pepper, and sweet port wine. The flavors heavily coat the front and back of the palate, as well as the roof of the mouth.

Finish

The finish is long, and contains the same notes as the palate. The plum and white pepper notes are the most prevalent on the front and back of the palate. The finish is unbelievably thick, and almost forms a layer on the tongue.

In closing

I think Midnight Cask Barrel Proof is absolutely fantastic. Taking what is arguably the best regular release from High Bank and making it barrel proof was not only a promising idea, it was an excellent execution. Additionally, for its price, I honestly don’t think you’ll find a better finished whiskey out there. The value on this is absolutely through the roof! I can tell a lot of hard work and effort went into planning, creating, and blending this whiskey. I need a bottle of this open on my shelf at all times!

The Sample used for this review was provided at no cost by High Bank Distilling Co. We thank them for allowing us to try this release with no strings attached.