Old Elk Port Finished

A high-malt bourbon that’s part of Colorado whiskey maker Old Elk’s Cask Finish series, this dram kicks off with sugared grapefruit, Fruit Roll-Ups, cherry cola, and vanilla bean crème brûlée. The palate is redolent with spice and fruit, practically oozing with red berry compote, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and a bit of nuttiness. Add water, and those chocolate and cinnamon notes become even more vibrant. On the finish, there’s candied sweetness and more spice, both also expanding delightfully with a dash of water.