Kentucky Owl Rye Batch 2 Vs. Very Old St. Nick Summer Rye

I love this comparison. Both of these are sourced whiskeys by two producers who are both in the process of opening their own distilleries... They are both overpriced, but they are also both incredibly good high-proof bottles.

Very Old St. Nick: 117.5 proof.
The nose is initially peppery, but then oak, cream soda, and cherry come in. The first sip immediately coats your mouth with massive amounts of flavors, and has an almost oily mouthfeel. It starts peppery, with a burst of rye spice, that quickly fades to sweet cherry, oak, and vanilla. The finish is incredibly long and satisfying. This is one of the best bottles I’ve ever had. Up there with Handy (I should probably do that comparison some day)

Kentucky Owl Rye: 101.8 proof. 
Very different nose, immediate fruity melon and funk, with subtle cardamom and pickle brine. The palate is lighter, with very smooth and clean taste. Flavors of cinnamon, honey, vanilla, peanut, some orange, and then some pepper. The finish is medium in length with some oak flavors left on your tongue... This is another excellent whiskey!

Verdict: The Kentucky Owl is great, and I could drink it every day, but there are a lot of almost as good bottles for half the price (batch 3, 10yr is much better btw). I think the The Very Old St. Nick on the other hand, is absolutely world-class, and the clear winner here in my book!