After two years on our shelf, we’ve finally finished our bottle of Dark Arts Amburana Oak Stave Finished Small Batch Rye. With the bottle now empty, I wanted to revisit it to see whether I still enjoyed it as much as I once did, and whether it’s something we’d buy again. Let’s dive in, but first, a refresher on the tasting notes.

This is a seven‑year‑old whiskey, finished by taking a six‑year rye and adding toasted Amburana oak staves. The mash bill consists of 95% rye and 5% malted barley.

---

Nose: oak, rye, apples and ginger
Palate: cinnamon, vanilla, French toast, spices and sweetness
Finish: cinnamon, coconut and a warming burn
ABV: 54% | Cost: $99 (what we paid)

---

In my initial review, I said this was the best cinnamon‑forward whiskey I’d ever had, and that still holds true. It remains the best cinnamon whiskey I’ve tasted, and I would absolutely repurchase it without hesitation. That said, if you’re not afan of cinnamon, this one isn’t for you. Cinnamon is the clear star of the dram from start to finish. While notes of vanilla, coconut, and French toast add depth and character, they play a supporting role and never overpower the cinnamon.

I’d happily buy this bottle repeatedly. If you’re a fan of cinnamon‑forward whiskeys, this one is worth trying.

Cheers!

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend people to try it and make up their own minds.