Nose: I have a soft spot for lightly scented candles. Especially the 99c ones with the exaggerated wailing saints on them sold in the hispanic section of the supermarket. Dust, wax, cinnamon and cloves. The slightly floral earth vibe of Rooibos. Apple peels. Julie recently bought me a cedar deodorant. Awesome smell but dang it’s rough to apply. And a savory note, leek quiche, especially the crust.

Palate: That is not what I expected. It might be one of the strangest and enticing palates in a while. Like fruit umami. Apples flash fried in salted browned butter, with a lightly caramelized edge. In elementary school I used to visit Eddie Fei’s house and his family had the most enticing and unusual snacks. I can just barely remember these spiced and candied mandarine peels and wish I could find the recipe. Some kind of spicy intensity like Sichuan peppercorns, cumin and fennel seeds. Still no luck figuring it out. And something a touch earthy- like crisped sage. Our old housemate Diego used to burn it to cleanse the kitchen from the evil spirits of my failed attempts at experimental cooking. On a revisit, there is some kind tart fruit note – a cassis kombucha.

Rating: 6 / 10 – I have literally no idea how to rate this. I’m kind of delighted and uncomfortable. Like any great adventure. And while I’d gladly drink this, and share it with friends, I can’t decide if I’d want a bottle.

Nose: Apple turnover with a nice helping of cinnamon sugar and a touch of cloves. Apple cider vinegar. They serve toasted pineapple cakes in every French restaurant. Which is both delicious, and tragic as Sascha is allergic. Cedar closet. Man this smells pretty great.

Palate: Fruity, funky, and even a bit estery. Pencil shavings and diesel. Canned mango and yellow peaches in syrup. Clove hard candies. Allspice. Guava jelly. Some of that edge makes me think of Marc without going all the way.

Rating: 8 / 10 – Definitely going to appeal to the rum crowd. Reminds me the slightest bit of a calmer appleton hearts 2002. Hands down a great pour. I’m a yes.