Autumn means one thing for High West: the release of their annual A Midwinter Nights Dram. Joy!
A Midwinter Nights Dram is basically High West’s Rendezvous Rye (a blend of 6-year-old rye whisky from MGP and 16-year-old rye whisky from Barton) that’s finished in French oak and port casks. In essence, the rye whisky should deliver big spicy notes while the port barrel finish adds a nice fruitiness. It’s bottled at 98.6 proof and runs close to $80.
Compared to last year’s release, this Act 4, Scene 5 edition features slightly more influence from the port casks. Upfront on the nose is that familiar dill note, which most likely comes from the MGP-distilled rye whiskey. There’s also dark toffee, mulled wine, cinnamon bark & clove, and some vanilla. Taste-wise, MWND Act 4 plays a nice balance of sweet and spicy, with hints of cinnamon, caramel, rye spice, red wine, plums and vanilla cream. The finish is long and leaves behind a spiced fruit note.
Fantastic stuff. If you’re already a fan of MWND, Act 4 is another great batch full of those familiar fruity and spicy notes. If you’ve never tried this whiskey, you’re in for a treat. Though it’s a limited release, it’s not AS hard to find as other fall favorites. Pick up a bottle if you see it on a shelf, pour a glass and enjoy. Recommended!
Thanks to High West for the sample. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.