Rating
82
I first tried Blackened Cask Strength Whiskey Black Brandy Cask Finish (Volume 02, 122.09 Proof) at a recent tasting and was surprised by its rich, buttery profile. So when I later spotted it on the clearance shelf at one of my local honey holes for $21, it was an easy decision to bring it home.
For those unfamiliar with the brand, Blackened Whiskey is a collaboration between the heavy metal band Metallica and legendary master distiller Dave Pickerell, originally released in 2018. The whiskey is a blend of North American straight bourbons and ryes that is finished in brandy casks. One of the brand’s unique twists is its “Black Noise” sonic-enhancement process, where low-frequency sound waves—often using Metallica’s music—vibrate the barrels to increase interaction between the whiskey and the wood, helping extract additional flavor compounds.
The Blackened Cask Strength Brandy Cask expression takes that base blend and bottles it at full proof, which in this case clocks in at a healthy 122.09 proof.
On the nose and palate, this one opens with a wonderful sweetness—blackberry and brown sugar jump out right away. There’s a bit of youthful ethanol on the front end, but it actually complements the whiskey’s creamy, surprisingly viscous mouthfeel and vibrant fruit character.
After a few sips, baking spices—particularly black pepper and clove—start to emerge, adding depth and a nice contrast to the initial burst of sweet blackberry fruit.
This is a whiskey that drinks quite nicely neat, though I suspect it would also make excellent cocktails thanks to its bold proof and fruit-forward profile.
At $21 on clearance, this one felt like an absolute steal.