FEW proofed its straight rye with oolong tea for this unusual whiskey specialty, and while the effect is subtle, it’s unmistakable. Dusty cloves and old cigar box, oolong tea leaves, bundled herbs, polished furniture, and a hint of blueberries and Concord grapes on the nose. The palate is dry and nutty, austere and spare: cocoa powder, herbal oak, licorice tea, mint, raw walnuts, and pecans. More walnuts, mint, licorice, dry oak, and black pepper on the finish.

Reviewed by: Susannah Skiver Barton (Winter 2020)