Contract distiller Bardstown Bourbon has begun building its own portfolio of whiskeys, and this inaugural release—comprising 60% Bardstown’s own 2 year old bourbon and 40% sourced 11 year old bourbon—is an auspicious debut. Rye and an herbal rush of peppermint and dill greet the nose, swathed in cotton candy, vanilla cream, and nutty caramel. The palate is loaded with chocolate fudge, honeyed almonds, dark fruits, light pepper, and allspice. Bitter chocolate, espresso, orange peel, leather, and spice complete a sumptuous finish. —David Fleming