Was given this as a birthday gift 2 weeks ago. I hadn't cracked it open because I honestly thought it was going to be a bummer. 2 year age statement and fairly light in color through the bottle.
Firstly this is the NDP product sold before MGP acquired the brand. Batch #3 at 93.8 proof. Still a MGP juice, and we decided to give it a shot this evening. We are both pleasantly surprised with it. A blind test would never have me guessing at a 2 year age statement. Honestly I would have guessed 5-6. Has a light nose with a faint sweetness to it. On the toungue it has a heavier rye flavor followed by a soft sweetness. Personally I think it is extremely close to Willetts Bardstown BIB in every category except color.
I tried a second drink on the rocks and really liked it. The ice and chill really tamed the rye for me and made it much smoother, but also stole some of the original soft sweetness.
At $42 I would not recommend it to anyone other then those who simply wish to give it a try. It's not bad at all but over priced for me personally considering the Willett Btown
BIB which is almost identical to me goes for $21.
It has given me a great interest in the NDP SB and Port finished though provided I can find them.