• On the nose is all the raw grain, green wood, and oak one expects from a young whiskey stored in small barrels. Notes of biscuits, honey, and cherry struggle to emerge from the overpowering wood. In the mouth it’s much the same: an immature imbalance of barrel wood, grain, and a bitter medicinal flavor. A bit of chocolate and salt emerge toward the end. Finish is warm, short, and very dry.

This entry into the growing field of American single malt whiskey is made by Venus Spirits in Santa Cruz, California. It uses certified organic ingredients, is distilled in an alembic still, and aged in small, 10-gallon barrels for seven months.