DISCLOSURE: It is Cocktails, 365′s policy that it always disclose when we receive samples of liquor to review for the Website. As we tell those who offer samples: we will accept the liquor for review, but that does not guarantee a positive review. Listed below are the opinions of Cocktails, 365 and no one else. And always, thanks and drink up!

Cocktails, 365 Rating: ★★★★☆

This week we’re taking an in-depth look at the FEW Spirits lineup. So far we’ve reviewed the FEW Rye, American Gin, Bourbon, Standard Issue Gin, and Barrel Aged Gin. Finally, we wrap up with the crown jewel in FEW’s portfolio – the single malt American whisky.

Nose

It hits you straight up the nose with corn. There’s a definite bread quality dominates the nose. It settles on a bit of vanilla and oak on the end.

Neat

The nose definitely informs the taste of the single malt. While they say its been distilled with both smoked and unsmoked malted barley, you definitely don’t get much of the smoke neat. It has very distinctive nutty flavor. Wholly unique. Not bad, but certainly a different beast. Seems like its heavier on the sweeter side than I usually prefer, but the roughness waylays that sweetness.

On the Rocks

The addition of ice really opens up the complexity of the whiskey, although it does seem a bit single-note for a single malt. The oak becomes a lot more prominent, and tones down some of the “bread-ness” from the corn. It lingers long, with an earthy flavor and the grain lingers.

Verdict

Worth a dram if only for the uniqueness of it. It stands apart, especially as a single malt American whiskey. It takes several times back to the draw for it to warm on you, but a lovely piece of Americana in liquid form.

Mark Vierthaler is the founder and Editor of Cocktails, 365. His work appeared in The Tasting Panel Magazine, Savvy Host, Liquor.com, and countless other websites and blogs. He is Bar Smarts certified, and works with bars and restaurants in cocktail creation and pairing. To contact him, e-mail cocktails365@markvierthaler.com