Rare Character’s The Exceptional Series 9-Year-Old Straight Tennessee Whiskey showcases the pinnacle of single barrel craftsmanship, blending rich Southern tradition with a modern collector’s sensibility. Distilled in Tennessee in April 2001 and bottled in April 2009, this limited-edition release spent nine full years aging in new charred oak barrels, coaxing out deep, layered flavors that set it apart from the ordinary.
Bottled at a bold 59% ABV (118 proof), this single barrel expression bursts with aromas of toasted oak, brown sugar, and vanilla bean. On the palate, expect complex waves of dark caramel, cinnamon stick, roasted pecans, and a subtle undertone of leather and tobacco. The finish lingers with a warm balance of baking spice, molasses, and rich oak tannins — making it a powerful yet elegant sipper.
While the precise mash bill is undisclosed, the traditional Tennessee whiskey profile strongly suggests a high corn base with balanced rye and malted barley components, filtered through sugar maple charcoal in the classic Lincoln County Process.
Rare Character Whiskey Co., based in Lexington, Kentucky, is renowned for curating single-barrel selections from heritage distilleries and aging them to perfection, with an emphasis on unique provenance and exceptional quality. Though relatively new, the brand has quickly earned a cult following among enthusiasts for bottlings like this one — a testament to their dedication to rare, character-driven whiskeys.
Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or as the centerpiece of a refined whiskey tasting, The Exceptional Series Straight Tennessee Whiskey stands as a true collector’s gem.
