Anthony N.
Yelp
Occasionally, I just come across a gem that words can't fully describe. One of those gems is Fainting Goat Distillery. After waiting what seemed to be ages to see an "open" sign post-pandemic, I seized the opportunity to wander in while buzzing around Downtown.
Walking through the northern entrance, I was greeted by the hearty aroma of yeast mash in the fermentation vats full of barley malt; it's a mouth-watering aroma that smells like a fresh-baked loaf of sourdough bread. I was directed to the back of the shop, where a warm wooden interior welcomed me in a friendly staff member invited me to the $10 tasting. I eagerly jumped at the chance.
Upon seating, I was given a flight of four feature spirits, each described to me in vivid detail by the knowledgeable staff. All were intensely drinkable, with the right balance of heat and flavor.
- Tiny Cat. A crystal-clear vodka offering, smooth-drinking as water, at just the right proof (40 abv). I've seldom tried a vodka with as much body and flavor as this. I picked up aromas and tastes of honey, wheat and spices. A vodka that stands on it's own without a mixer.
- Emulsion. Seemingly the same grain base as Tiny Cat, smooth with added complexity of botanicals. A string floral honeysuckle/lavender presence with a subdued pine resin was the juniper. Well-balanced and intensely drinkable.
- C.B. Fisher's Single Malt. An enjoyable bouquet of honey, malt, spice and vanilla. Reminded me of Eagle Trace, but far smoother.
- C.B. Straight Rye Whiskey. This was the clincher for me. An incredibly-smooth sipper full of peppery, malty, honey-sweet heaven. By far the best rye I've ever tasted, for about a modest cost above a bottle of Bulleit. I couldn't control my impulse to walk out with a bottle of this liquid magic. I even got a complimentary snifter for my troubles.
Fainting Goat is one more reason to love the great state of North Carolina. Time to sip some more rye.
