Rye Whiskey

Hard Truth 7 Year Whiskeys | Full Lineup Tasting 

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Hard Truth’s 7-Year Indiana Whiskey: Bourbon, Wheated, and Rye!

The 7-year mark has officially arrived at Hard Truth Distilling Co., and we are breaking down the entire lineup! In this video, we deep dive into the brand new Hard Truth 7-Year Straight Bourbon, the 7-Year Wheated Bourbon, and the 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye.

Hard Truth has been making waves in Nashville, Indiana, but do these age-stated bottles live up to the premium MSRP? We explore the mash bills, the proof, and the flavor profiles of these highly anticipated February 2026 releases. Whether you are a fan of high-rye bourbons, soft wheated profiles, or punchy sweet mash ryes, we’re finding out exactly where these bottles sit in the current craft whiskey landscape.

In this tasting, we cover:

  • Hard Truth 7-Year Straight Bourbon (112.3 Proof): The core profile.
  • Hard Truth 7-Year Wheated Bourbon (116.1 Proof): The smooth operator.
  • Hard Truth 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye (107 Proof): The rye lover’s dream.

Let us know in the comments if you’ve managed to snag a bottle and what your tasting notes are!

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Hard Truth 7-Year Straight Bourbon

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Hard Truth Distilling Co. (Nashville, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 67% Corn, 21% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 112.3
  • MSRP: $89.99
  • Released: February 2026
  • Purchased: $74.99 04/03/26 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

Hard Truth 7-Year Wheated Bourbon

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Hard Truth Distilling Co. (Nashville, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 69% Corn, 19% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 116.1
  • MSRP: $89.99
  • Released: February 2026
  • Purchased: $74.99 04/03/26 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

Hard Truth 7-Year Sweet Mash Rye

  • Classification: Indiana Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Hard Truth Distilling Co.
  • Distillery: Hard Truth Distilling Co. (Nashville, IN)
  • Mash Bill: 94% Rye, 6% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 107
  • MSRP: $89.99
  • Released: February 2026
  • Purchased: $74.99 04/03/26 at High Spirits in Evansville, IN

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NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.


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4/20 Special: Tasting the Dark Arts Blunt Blend Batch

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It’s 4/20 and we are “weeding” out the latest release from Dark Arts Whiskey House! In this episode of Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca dive into the Blunt Blend Batch 3, affectionately known as “The Dank Arts.”

This isn’t your average rye. This is an 8-year-old Indiana Rye (likely MGP) that has undergone a sophisticated double-finish in both Madeira and Armagnac casks. Bottled at a stout 113.8 proof, this whiskey promises a complex journey from a fruit-forward nose to a surprising “chocolate” finish that left us questioning if we were actually eating a candy bar!

In this video, we explore:

  • The unique “Dank Arts” branding and 4/20 inspiration. 
  • The impact of the Madeira and Armagnac double-finish on a high-rye mash bill. 
  • Full tasting notes: Discover why Wayne calls this a “Top 5 Rye” of all time. 
  • A breakdown of the viscosity (those legs!) and the “chocolate pop” on the palate. 
  • Our experience ordering online from Dark Arts—is the shipping worth the cost?

Whether you’re a “rye guy” or usually stick to bourbon, this complex, viscous, and spicy “Blunt Blend” might just be your new favorite pour. Stick around for the end where we discuss upcoming cigar pairings and a “special” summer report!

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Dark Arts Blunt Blend (Batch 3) Dank Arts

  • Classification: Rye Bourbon Whiskey
  • Company: Dark Arts Whiskey House
  • Distillery: Distilled in Indiana; Blended/Bottled in Sparta, KY
  • Mash Bill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
  • Age: 8 Years
  • Finished: Madeira Cask and Armagnac Cask
  • Proof: 113.8
  • MSRP: $99.99
  • Released: Late March 2026
  • Other: Bottle 3370
  • Purchased: $122.18 with Shipping from Dark Arts Online

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Fred Minnick “Vision Quest” Blind Tasting Challenge! Blind Barrels Release XVII

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Can you handle the truth in a blind tasting? Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Wayne and Rebecca are diving into the highly anticipated Blind Barrels Release XVII, a special collaboration with whiskey expert Fred Minnick titled “Vision Quest.”

This release features a curated selection of unique expressions that push the boundaries of craft distilling. From the first authentic Tennessee whiskey ever included in a Blind Barrels kit to an incredible rebirth of old-school Pennsylvania rye, this flight is designed to challenge your palate and your preconceptions.

Featured in this flight:

  • A 115-proof custom blend from some blending masters.
  • A bold 100-proof pour using the Lincoln County process with sugar maple charcoal.
  • A high-rye Monongahela throwback at 121.6 proof.
  • A 120.2 proof “mahogany” sweet mash beauty.

Watch as we break down the nose, palate, and finish of each sample blindly before the big reveal! Which one took the top spot, and which one surprised us the most?

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NOTE: We were not compensated by the spirit producers or Blind Barrels for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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3 Michter’s Ryes You NEED to Try: Tasting & Review 

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The Rye Trifecta: A Deep Dive into Michter’s Fort Nelson Experience! 🥃

Welcome back to another episode of Bourbon Trail Tales and Tastes! Today, we are heading to the heart of Louisville’s “Whiskey Row” to revisit a personal favorite: Michter’s Fort Nelson. As Distillery #15 and Stamp #13 on our Kentucky Bourbon Trail journey, this historic site is more than just a distillery—it’s a masterclass in whiskey maturation.

In this episode, Wayne and Rebecca are breaking down three incredible (and hard-to-find) Michter’s Ryes. From the raw power of the Barrel Strength to the “sugar rush” of the Toasted Barrel Finish, and finishing with the elegance of the 10 Year Rye, we’re exploring why Michter’s is a must-stop for any whiskey enthusiast.

We also share our tips for visiting the Fort Nelson bar, the “Bottle Your Own” experience (and why you need to get in line early!), and a shoutout to Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.

Whiskeys Tasted in This Episode:

  • Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022): The bold, spicy baseline at 112.4 proof.
  • Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye (2023): Secondary maturation magic featuring campfire marshmallow and dark chocolate notes.
  • Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (2024/2025): Sophisticated, herbal, and refined. Is it actually older than 10 years? 

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✴️Michter’s US*1 Barrel Strength Rye (2022)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Proprietary “Kentucky Style” rye; high corn and malted barley content)
  • Age: NAS (Non-Age Stated, but generally understood to be 5–7 years)
  • Proof: 112.4
  • Released: March 2022 
  • Other:  Low Entry Proof: Distillate enters the barrel at 103 proof, much lower than the industry standard (125 proof), which Michter’s claims results in a richer mouthfeel.
  • Purchased: 09/03/22 for $119 at Michter’s Fort Nelson

✴️Michter’s US*1 Toasted Barrel Finish Rye (2023)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Michter’s Distillery (Louisville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed
  • Age: NAS (The base rye is typically 5–7 years old before the secondary finish)
  • Proof: 108.6
  • Released: September 2023
  • Other: Finishing Process: After aging in charred new American oak, the whiskey is moved to a second barrel made of 24-month air-dried wood that has been toasted but not charred. Entry Proof: Like the others, this began its life at a low 103 entry proof, which helps maintain that “creamy” mouthfeel even after the second barreling.
  • Purchased: 12/16/23 for $139.00

✴️Michter’s 10 Year Kentucky Straight Rye (2024/2025)

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Michter’s Distillery
  • Distillery: Undisclosed (Contract distilled to Michter’s specifications in Kentucky)
  • Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Known as a “Kentucky Style” Rye, heavy on corn and malted barley)
  • Age: 10 Years (Though widely rumored to be aged closer to 12–15 years)
  • Proof: 92.8
  • Released: Mid-2024 
  • Other: Barrel No. 24C1550: .
  • Single Barrel: Unlike the Small Batch US*1 line, this is pulled from a single, exceptional barrel chosen by Master Distiller Dan McKee and Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson.
  • Purchased: 02/22/25 for $210.00

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Peter E. Hart Kentucky Rye: Everything You Need to Know

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A Journey Through History: Peter E. Hart Smoked Barrel Rye Review 🥃

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as we dive into a truly unique find from BourbonCon 2026: the Peter E. Hart Rye Whiskey. Sourced from the prestigious Wilderness Trail Distillery, this isn’t your average spicy rye.

What happens when you take a high-quality Kentucky Rye and finish it in Smoked Bourbon Barrels? You get a “cinnamon champagne” effervescence, bright citrus notes, and a “bourbon-esque” caramel finish that might just turn non-rye drinkers into believers. Whether you’re a fan of historical whiskey roots or looking for a rye soft enough for a slow, after-work sipper, this bottle tells a story in every glass.

In this video, we cover:

  • The historical connection to Union Soldier Sergeant Peter E. Hart.
  • Why the smoked barrel finish reminds us of the “smokehouse” style.
  • Detailed tasting notes: Orange citrus, floral grass, and popping cinnamon.
  • Is it worth the $130 price point?

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✴️ PETER E HART RYE WHISKEY

  • Classification: Kentucky Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Peter E Hart
  • Distillery: Sourced from Wilderness Trail Distillery (Danville, KY)
  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Age: 3 Years (ave blend is reported closer to 4.5 years)
  • Proof: 100
  • Other: Finished in Smoked Bourbon Barrels
  • Purchased: 01/17/26 for $130 at BourbonCon in Lexington, KY

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Flaviar 2025 Episode 6: New Frontiers of Whiskey

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Buckle up, Global Travelers! ✈️🥃

Welcome to Episode Six of our 2025 Flaviar “FlaviAIR” Whiskey Advent Calendar journey! Today, Wayne and Rebecca (Your Bourbon Journey captains) are clearing the flight path for a daring international leg. We’re exploring the “New Frontiers” of malted grain innovation across three continents: Asia, North America, and Europe.

In this triple-threat reveal, we dive into Days 16, 17, and 18 to uncover unique spirits from Shanghai, Cincinnati, and Finland. From a groundbreaking “Three Body Barrel” Chinese whiskey to a 100% malted Kentucky rye and a finish in a traditional Finnish sauna—this flight is packed with surprises!

Inside Today’s Flight Path:

  • Day 16: Hai Seas Distillery “San Oaks” (Shanghai, China) – A modern philosophy blending French, American, and Chinese Oak. Is it too woody, or just right?
  • Day 17: New Riff Malted Rye (Cincinnati, OH) – A 100% malted rye, bottled-in-bond, and aged 6 years. Does this “bloomed” grain change our minds about rye?
  • Day 18: Kyrö Wood Smoked Rye (Vaasa, Finland) – Alder-smoked malt that smells like a dream and tastes like “smoked apples.” Could this be the ultimate cigar pairing?

Are you tasting along with the 2025 Flaviar Calendar? Let us know in the comments which of these three was your favorite!

👉 Subscribe to join our crew for the rest of the 24-day countdown! 👉 Drink Responsibly.

Did you snag the Flaviar Advent Calendar 2025? Let us know your favorite pour in the comments! 

If not, save $20 with this referral link: http://rwrd.io/ref_J5DD0JR?c 

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Disclaimer: We are not sponsored by Flaviar for this review. We purchased the calendar ourselves and offer our honest opinion. Please drink responsibly.

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Flaviar Advent 2025: Days 7, 8, 9 Surprise Whiskeys

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🥃 Flaviar Advent Calendar 2025: Days 7, 8, & 9 Reveal & Review! Heirloom Corn Whiskey, Farm-to-Glass Rye & Tequila Finished Bourbon! 🇺🇸

Welcome back, Travelers! Join Wayne and Rebecca, Your Bourbon Journey, as we open Days 7, 8, and 9 of the exclusive Flaviar Whiskey Advent Calendar 2025! This episode is a deep dive into American innovation, featuring three must-try whiskeys from Kentucky and Nevada. We uncover a high-rye bourbon finished in tequila barrels, a 100% farm-to-glass rye, and a unique small-batch bourbon using heirloom corn.

Don’t miss our full tasting review, breakdown of the unique stories behind each brand, and final thoughts on this incredible flight of American whiskey.

Day 7: 15 STARS First West Small Batch Bourbon We revisit this exceptional Kentucky Bourbon, which features a blend of 5, 6, and 7-year-old bourbons, including a proprietary mash bill with rare red, white, black, and blue heritage corns! Get our tasting notes on the vanilla, brown sugar, butterscotch, and nuttiness this small-batch whiskey delivers.

Day 8: Frey Ranch Bottled-in-Bond Straight Rye Whiskey We land in Reno, Nevada, for the Frey Ranch Bottled-in-Bond Rye! Made from 100% sustainably grown winter rye using a true Farm-to-Glass approach. This 100 proof rye surprises us with floral notes, a soft start, and a beautiful lingering pepperiness. 

Day 9: Mary Dowling Tequila Barrel Finished Bourbon Honoring the “Mother of Bourbon,” Mary Dowling, this exciting high-rye bourbon is finished in authentic Reposado Tequila barrels—a nod to her distilling history in Mexico during Prohibition! We explore the nose of sweet agave and rye spice, and the surprising palate of chocolate, agave, and a long, clean finish. Tequila finish bourbon is the hottest trend of 2025, and this one is a must-try!

Did you snag the Flaviar Advent Calendar 2025? Let us know your favorite pour in the comments!

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Best RYE Whiskey? Blind Taste Test 5 Bottles!

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🥃 Blind Rye Whiskey Battle: Which Bottle is the Champion?

Join Wayne and Rebecca from Your Bourbon Journey as they go WAY off the beaten path for an epic blind rye whiskey tasting! Can these bourbon lovers pick their favorite rye when they don’t know what’s in the glass? Five incredible bottles are in the running, each with a unique mash bill and proof point. The results are surprising, revealing a range of flavors from chocolate malt and coffee to floral notes and citrusy orange!

Watch as we blindly review and rank:

  • Bardstown Bourbon Co. Origin Series Rye (96 Proof): The double-barreled rye finished in Toasted Cherry Wood and Oak. 
  • Hard Truth Chocolate Malt Rye (109.6 Proof): A unique rye with a high percentage of Chocolate Malted Barley that tastes like an “after dinner coffee drink!” 
  • Neeley Family Distillery Sweet Thumped Rye (108.9 Proof): The only Single Barrel in the group, praised for its pure sweet mash profile. 
  • New Riff Balboa Rye Bottled in Bond (100 Proof): Featuring the heirloom Balboa Rye grain. 
  • Tom’s Town Straight Rye Bottled in Bond (100 Proof): A Bottled-in-Bond rye with distinct citrus notes, perfect for a cocktail! 

From high-rye Balboa to the unique chocolate malt, which bottle takes home the title of our personal favorite sipper? You won’t believe the final scores! Plus, we give a shoutout to the perfect bottle for making an amazing Manhattan!

Let us know in the comments: Have you tried any of these ryes? What are your favorite tasting notes in a rye whiskey?

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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125 Proof Woodford Rye! Fresh Crack & Tasting Notes

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🥃 Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye Review | First EVER High Proof Rye from Woodford! (Distiller’s Select)

Join Wayne and Rebecca on Your Bourbon Journey as they do a fresh crack and whiskey tasting of the Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye! This limited edition Distiller’s Select release is a game-changer for Woodford Reserve—it’s their first-ever high-proof rye whiskey, bottled at a powerful 125.1 proof!

Are these high-proof whiskey lovers (who usually skip the 90.4 proof standard Woodford) impressed by this Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey? Find out as they dive into the complex flavor profile, nose, and finish of this new, hard-to-find bottle.

From the intriguing 53% rye mash bill and beautiful color to unexpected notes of orange zest and clove, tune in to see if this barrel strength rye is a must-buy and if it makes the cut for their Whiskey of the Month selection!

Key Takeaways from this Whiskey Review:

  • Proof Point: A robust 125.1—a massive step up from Woodford’s standard.
    Tasting Notes: Discover the surprising orange marmalade and clove notes, along with classic rye spice and black pepper.
  • Value: Is this $129.99 MSRP limited edition rye worth the hype and the price?
  • Mash Bill: Learn how the 53% Rye, 33% Corn, 14% Malted Barley blend impacts the taste.

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📝 Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye Details

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Company: Brown-Forman
  • Distillery: Woodford Reserve
  • Mash Bill: 53% Rye, 33% Corn, 14% Malted Barley
  • Age: NAS (likely 4-6 years)
  • Proof: 125.1 (Barrel Strength)
  • MSRP: $129.99 (700ml)
  • Released: 10/2/2025
  • Other: Limited Edition, Distiller’s Select, first high-proof rye
  • Purchased: 10/29/25 for $120 at Archie & Clyde’s in Newburgh, IN

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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Wilderness Trail Tour & Rye 7 Year BIB Review

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Wilderness Trail 7-Year Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey Review (Kentucky Bourbon Trail Stop)

Wayne and Rebecca are taking you back to their exclusive visit to Wilderness Trail Distillery (Distillery #47), an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (KBT) in Danville, KY and our 39th stamp in our passport book.

This video chronicles our full distillery tour, where we learned about the unique, science-driven operation led by PhD founders Dr. Pat Heist and Shane Baker. After the tour and meeting the distillery’s beloved cat, Cooper, we finally taste a highly sought-after, RARE 7-Year Small Batch Rye that was bottled-in-bond.

So grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s explore this bourbon together! Click play ▶️ NOW!

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ABOUT THE BOTTLE REVIEWED

✴️ Wilderness Trail Small Batch Rye Whiskey

  • Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
  • Distillery: Wilderness Trail
  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Age: 7 Years
  • Proof: 100 (Bottled in Bond)
  • Released: 2023 as a Gift Shop Only
  • Other: Approximately 15 barrels
  • Purchased: 05/20/53 for $75 at the Wilderness Trail Distillery

❌YOUR BOURBON JOURNEY DOES NOT SELL ALCOHOL❌

This Distillery Only 7-Year Rye was aged for a full seven years on the property. We explore whether the low-rye mash bill (56% Rye) delivers on its promise.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, expect floral notes, sweet honey, hints of chocolate, and herbal mint. The palate is beautifully balanced with rich caramel, baking spice, and a touch of lemon peel. The finish is long, warm, and ends with a unique peppermint patty coolness.

  • Mash Bill: 56% Rye, 33% Corn, 11% Malted Barley
  • Proof: 100 (Bottled-in-Bond)
  • Release: 2023 Distillery Only

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NOTE: The spirit in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.

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