85 points
High West High Country American Single Malt (Batch 19I04), 44%
Earthy, phenolic, and herbaceous with a wisp of smoke and seaweed, this is certainly characterful. The flavor marries malty sweetness, red fruits, and a peculiar smoke, like a distant burning leaf pile or smoldering smoked jalapeños. While it tastes a bit young, and it’s certainly unconventional, this is a very intriguing whiskey, with an ashy finish delivering cocoa and nutty notes. (9,600 bottles)
Reviewed by: Jeffery Lindenmuth (Spring 2020)