Broken Barrel Whiskey Co., founded by Seth Benhaim, finds its inspiration in experimentation with used barrels, including Bourbon, French oak, and Spanish sherry casks. The company’s innovative “Oak Bill” trademark involves breaking down barrel staves and infusing them into the whiskey for finishing. Featuring a mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley, their expression showcases a unique blend of 80% Central Coast Cabernet staves and 20% New French Oak staves. On the nose, expect notes of vanilla, freshly-cut straw, and subtle oak. The palate offers a continuation of vanilla alongside red berry sweetness, with a hint of rye spiciness emerging on the back palate. Surprisingly, the finish is short and spicy, with minimal tannin dryness often associated with Cabernet casks.