Get ready for an EXCLUSIVEMichter’s 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey Review! 🔥 Join us as we recount our incredible tour of the iconic Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville, Kentucky! We were lucky enough to snag a bottle of the highly sought-after Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye and we’re bringing you all the delicious details.
In this episode, we enthusiastically dive deep into this exceptional release, exploring its rich aromas, complex palate, and unforgettable finish. Prepare for a symphony of flavors! 🥃
We also want to give a huge shoutout to the amazing leadership team at Michter’s, especially the dynamic duo, Dan McKee and Andrea Wilson! Their dedication to quality truly shines through in this premium rye whiskey.
Don’t miss out on this in-depth review of a truly special bottle! Hit play now to experience the magic of Michter’s Rye with us!
#michters #ryewhiskeyreview #tastingnotes
ABOUT THIS BOTTLE
✴️ Michter’s 10 Year Single Barrel Rye (2024)
Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Company: Michter’s Whiskey
Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery(ies)
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Age: 10
Proof: 92.8
MSRP: $200
Purchased: 02/22/25 for $210 at Michter’s Fort Nelson in Louisville Kentucky
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.
In Episode 11 of Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we recount our first three visits to Kentucky Peerless Distilling in Louisville, Kentucky. Join us as we remember that first day, December 28, 2020, the second time September 3, 2022, which marked our 11th Stamp on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and even our third visit, October 29, 2022 where we were able to take their production tour. We share our insights into the experiences available at Kentucky Peerless Distilling, including a production tour, formal guided tastings, and the option of a non-appointment express tasting. To fully immerse ourselves in those cherished memories, we taste from two bottles purchased on our first visits, Rye Cherry Cola Single Barrel Distillery Selection and Spiced Orange Soda Single Barrel Bourbon Distillery Selection, enabling us to relive the original experiences and further enriching our journey with yet another highlight in Our Bourbon Journey.
In this series, Bourbon Trail Tales & Tastes, we navigate the rich tapestry of our memorable experiences on the Bourbon Trail, a journey that has undeniably enriched our appreciation for this iconic American spirit. We tackle intriguing questions such as: What stands out as the most profound memory of that bourbon trail experience, one that has etched itself firmly in our minds? What exceptional and bourbon or whiskey did we discover during this journey, perhaps one that surprised us with its intricate and delightful flavor profiles? What lasting impressions do we have of that bourbon or whiskey today, as we reflect on its complexities and how they resonate with our evolving palates and preferences? Through this exploration, we passionately recount our adventures and celebrate the stories and connections we’ve forged along the way, highlighting the essence of the Bourbon Trail.
ABOUT THESE BOTTLES:
Rye Cherry Cola Single Barrel Distillery Selection
Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Company: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Other: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered, No Water Added
Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
Proof: 110.4
Released: 2020
Purchased: 12/28/20 for no record at KY Peerless, Louisville KY
Spiced Orange Soda Single Barrel Bourbon Distillery Selection
Classification: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Company: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
Distillery: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company
Mash Bill: Undisclosed
Other: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered, No Water Added
Age: NAS (at least 4 years)
Proof: 107.4
Released: 2022
Purchased: 09/03/22 for $129.99 at KY Peerless, Louisville KY
This bottle contains Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky.
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.
Last summer we purchased a bottle of Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel Rye because Wayne is a huge fan of pumpernickel! Unfortunately, we had perhaps some unrealistic expectations of what that rye would taste like and we were somewhat disappointed. Not that is was bad, just that it didn’t align with expectations. Here is a LINK to that original tasting story.
We had several whiskey-loving friends who excitedly encouraged us to give Middle West Spirits another try. They specifically recommended exploring one of their double casks or a cask strength, which sounded thrilling! While attending Bourbon on the Banks in October, we eagerly sampled a few of their delightful offerings. That’s when we discovered and decided to purchase the amazing Double Cask Collection Ported Pumpernickel Rye Whiskey. This past weekend, we joyfully opened this bottle, excited to see what it had in store for us. We’re so glad we did!
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Mashbill – Dark Pumpernickel Rye, Non GMO, Open Pollinated Yellow Corn, 1-row Barley, Ohio Soft Red Winter Wheat (no percentages available) Age – 5 years Casks – Aged in Toasted and Charred American White Oak; finished in Tawny Port Casks Proof – 99.5 Price Paid – $49.99 (plus tax)
Color – Dark amber. Nice legs.
Aroma – Port wine is the first aroma on the nose then followed closely by rye spices, vanilla, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
Tasted Neat – The Pumpernickel rye is evident as is the port wine. Flavors of vanilla, nutmeg, and stone fruit – date or fig – are also delightful.
Finish – There is a hint of chocolate and the nutmeg lingers, but there is much less port wine. Overall it has a medium to long finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – More spice notes are prominent and the cranberry truly enhanced the flavors of port wine, overall, making it a bit brighter. Unfortunately, the finish is very limited. That said, a red wine drinker would likely love this pairing.
Tasted with a pecan – Barrel notes are on the first taste. Nutmeg and now cinnamon as well is quite present. The pecan muted the port wine, vanilla, and stone fruit notes. Overall, finish is very limited.
Tasted with dark chocolate – The flavors of Port wine returned and with a very creamy mouth feel. There are notes of chocolate and a lot of cinnamon; however, no stone fruit. The finish with the pecan is short to medium.
Final Notes and Video
We really enjoyed this rye for its overall flavor and complexity. The color of this rye whiskey boasts a bold dark amber, showcasing its impressive viscosity. On the nose, the first aroma is port wine, seamlessly followed by intriguing rye spices, rich vanilla, nutmeg, and a touch of brown sugar. Tasting it neat, the distinct Pumpernickel rye takes center stage, harmonizing beautifully with the port wine. The delightful flavors of vanilla, nutmeg, and stone fruit—be it date or fig—are a true highlight. As for the finish, it offers a subtle hint of chocolate, with nutmeg lingering gracefully, while the port wine recedes, presenting an overall medium to long finish that truly impresses.
This tasting illustrates why we never judge a spirit based on a single taste, nor do we form opinions about a distillery from just one bottle. We are thrilled to have acquired this exceptional bottle and revisit Middle West Spirits. The Tawny Port wine cask adds a remarkable complementary finish to this pumpernickel rye, and this bottle is bursting with complexity. While it may not suit every rye whiskey enthusiast because of the Tawny Port wine finish, it was an undeniable favorite for us!
Embracing the Craft, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos and video by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The whiskey 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.
StraightRye Whiskey
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
It is hard to believe that last week at this time Wayne and I were attending the Bourbon Women SIPosium in Louisville. One of the events of the weekend was an ongoing auction. Thrilled that, together, we won four auctions. This tasting from a basket that was won.
PeacockLeiper’s Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey: 100% Local: Mashed, Fermented, Distilled, Aged and Bottled by Leiper’s Fork Distillery. It is made with local non-GMO Grains (Corn Grown on their Chief Distiller’s Farm), with the use of Toasted Barley Malt for Deeper Complexity. Also, it is Non-Chill Filtered for a Robust Profile and Mouthfeel, Pot Distilled for a Pre-Prohibition Style that is Full Bodied, has a Low Distillation Proof of 137* for Depth of Flavor, Low Barrel Entry Proof at 110* for a rounded Palette and is a Limited Release.
Single Barrel High N’ Wicked Rye Whiskey Women Peacock Preferred Pick: This 4-year-old rye is 114.4 proof and has a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted rye. 5 Year Aged Sour Mash Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Distilled by New Riff Distilling. All Aging in seasoned medium toast new #4 char American white oak barrels. Non Chill Filtered. No additives.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Peacock Leiper’s Fork Distillery Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey
Mashbill – 70% Corn, 15% Wheat & 15% Toasted Barley Malt Age – 5 years Proof – 109.6 (cask strength) Other – Non-Chill Filtered for a Robust Profile and Mouthfeel, Pot Distilled for a Pre-Prohibition Style that is Full Bodied, has a Low Distillation Proof of 137* for Depth of Flavor, Low Barrel Entry Proof at 110* for a rounded Palette and is a Limited Release. Specifics – Barrel 452; Bottle 149 of 201
Price Paid – $105 (average of total auction price of $210; MSRP $85)
Color – Medium Amber
Aroma – Very inviting with caramel, vanilla, toffee, a light butterscotch with a hint of smokiness and cherry.
Tasted Neat – Similar to the nose with note of butterscotch, caramel, baking spices, cinnamon, and a hint of dark cherry.
Finish – Pleasant and lasting with baking spices, cinnamon, and notes of wood that linger in a great way.
Tasted with dried cranberry – This muted most of the great flavors and eliminated the sweetness. The baking spices remained and there is an addition of black pepper on the finish.
Tasted with a pecan – Very nice as the butterscotch returned with the addition of a very nice dark chocolate. The finish has more wood and oak flavor that previously.
Tasted with dark chocolate – The chocolate really increased the spice notes but not in a bad way. It also added a creaminess that was pleasant.
High N’ Wicked Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey Single Barrel
Mashbill – 95% Rye, 5% Malted Rye Age – 4 years Proof – 114.4 Other – Bourbon Women Peacock Preferred Pick Price Paid – $105 (average of total auction price of $210; MSRP $80)
Color – Amber hue
Aroma – Rye grass, brown sugar, pears, and mint tea.
Tasted Neat – Rye grass spices and cinnamon greet you with the first sip. Great mouth feel and there is a sweetness of pears and then a hint of oak and a slight smokiness.
Finish – The finish is very similar in that it begins spicy then leads into the pear and a bit of caramel and finally with a slight coolness of mint coupled by a sweet but smoky oakiness. Great finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Surprising as it created a rather sour note and the spices and rye grass way back. Not unpleasant but not great either.
Tasted with a pecan – As sometimes happens, the pecan amplified the spices and brought a lot of black pepper forward. The finish was very short as well.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Not very flavorful with the dark chocolate. It was creamy and with black pepper on the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
Leiper’s Fork is undeniably exceptional. The outstanding taste and aroma make it a bottle worth savoring. The enticing nose draws you in, making you want to savor every drop. It’s truly a remarkable single barrel and its fantastic qualities leave a lasting impression. Once again, Leiper’s Fork has left us thoroughly impressed.
We were not familiar with High n’ Wicked at first, but after trying it, we were impressed by its quality. This rye whiskey truly stands out for its solid and enjoyable character. In fact, its high rye mashbill adds a unique touch and flavor profile. With its rich and diverse flavors, it offers an elegant and enjoyable rye experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who appreciates a fine whiskey.
Happy to have won this auction so we could taste and enjoy each special bottle.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Straight Bourbon & Rye Whiskey Requirements
Straight Bourbon Whiskey Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
NOTE: The whiskeys in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Wayne and I have seen a few people mention Middle West Spirits out of Columbus, Ohio and have heard very good things about what they are producing. The notion of a rye whiskey made with dark pumpernickel rye was very intriguing and when we had an opportunity to get a bottle online, we did.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Middle West Spirits Dark Pumpernickel – Straight Rye Whiskey
Mashbill – Dark pumpernickel rye, Ohio soft red winter wheat, Yellow Corn, 2-row barley (specifics unknown) Age – Minimum of 4 Years (per website) Proof – 96 Price Paid – $54.99 (including tax)
Appearance – Amber with nice legs.
Aroma – Rye grass, honeysuckle, cinnamon, slight vanilla, and black licorice.
Tasted Neat – Good mouthfeel. Rye grass, cardamom, light cinnamon, honey, white pepper, black licorice, ginger, a hint of dark fruit maybe fig.
Finish – Medium finish with white pepper, cinnamon, rye spices, a hints of mint, oak, and black licorice.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Very fruity/fig with a lot of rye but less pepper.
Tasted with a pecan – Smokey and a lot of oak, a hint of leather and vanilla, and rye toast.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Dark chocolate with a hint of mint tea, and rye spices on the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
This dark pumpernickel makes a very nice rye. However, we really had hoped to find more of the pumpernickel and its darkness to create a more distinct flavor profile. From that standpoint, it was somewhat disappointing, but a nice rye whiskey, nevertheless.
The Ohio soft red winter wheat component could be what is lightening the rye aspects of the pour. Hard to know for sure and this is just supposition. Also, we believe that additional time in the barrel could really enhance some of the “hint” notes we identified or perhaps a higher proof point, such as of 105 versus 96, might for the overall flavor profile. We would love to try this at cask strength! I noted on their website that both their cask strength and single barrel options have garnered awards.
This is a good bottle of rye, and we enjoyed our first experience with it. If it had been a blind tasting and we had no idea about the type of rye, that may have influenced our palates in a different way. We are happy that we have it. If we see future bottles that are somewhat older or cask strength, we will certainly want to see if it creates a different experience.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Straight Rye WhiskeySpirit Requirements
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
NOTE: The whiskey in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
Wayne and I have been wanting to open this bottle and finally found a moment to relax and enjoy a pour. “Crafted with Conviction” by Eddie Russell, this year’s limited release of Master’s Keep – Triumph – is a passion project at Wild Turkey. This release is a nod to Eddie’s son, Bruce, Associate Blender at Wild Turkey and someone with a passion for rye. At 10-years old, this is the oldest age-stated rye ever released by Wild Turkey.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Mashbill – 51% Rye, 37% Corn, 12% Malted Barley Age – 10 Years Proof – 104 Price Paid – $275 (plus tax and shipping)
Appearance – Copper. Legs are somewhat slow to form but very substantive when appear.
Aroma – Initially, it is light and not very distinct. As it opens and the nose acclimates, a lot begins to happen. There is a sweetness often reminiscent of bourbon with vanilla and crème brûlée. Then the rye components of mint, allspice, and cloves drift into the aroma. Finally, there is a hint of light fruits such as apples and pears with a touch of nutmeg. It is quite a journey just on the nose!
Tasted Neat – Much like the nose, tasting requires several approaches to allow the flavor profile to touch each part of the mouth. It shifts and turns with each sip. The viscosity, as indicated by its legs, really provides a wonderful mouthfeel and the texture coats the palate very pleasantly. There is a lovely sweetness of honey, vanilla, and baked apples or pears. The flavors transition to deeper notes of dark chocolate, brown sugar, dates or possibly figs. The barrel notes come forward with oak and baking spices.
Finish – The finish is very long and lingering. Wood notes are dominate with oak and black pepper. However, there is also a light mint sensation to lighten up the otherwise darkness of the finish. It is certainly a journey!
Tasted with dried cranberry – At first sip, it became a spice bomb of red hot cinnamon. However, it calmed down to release a hint of citrus on the front and a brighter, but still a spicy finish.
Tasted with a pecan – This is interesting as it brought the wood notes very forward with dark chocolate and mint. Still a spicy finish but more along the line of ginger.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Wow, this became a chocolate desert drink, almost like Mexican Hot Chocolate with cinnamon.
Discussion and Final Notes
Perhaps it is the length of time in the barrel, the 37% corn, or the specific barrel selections, but this rye tends to waiver between a bourbon and a rye experience. As such, it would be a great pour for someone who hasn’t regularly enjoyed a rye whiskey.
That aside, this is an outstanding rye whiskey. With a 51% rye mashbill, the rye spices and rye grass notes don’t hit you upside they head; instead, they dance around and play with your nose and palate. As noted above, the journey it takes you on is an incredibly pleasant one and one that has a surprise around every turn.
Overall, I’m glad that we were able to get a bottle at MSRP directly from Wild Turkey. This is a wonderful addition to our Wild Turkey collection as well as our rye options.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Kentucky Straight Rye WhiskeySpirit Requirements
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements – Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Whiskey, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
NOTE: The whiskey in this review was purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
If you have spoken with us about our bourbon journey and favorite distilleries, you have certainly heard us talk about the Neeley Family Distillery in Sparta, KY. Our first visit was very planned as part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail; however, we almost always “stop by” when traveling to or from the Cincinnati, OH area! We are HUGE fans of their spirits and ensure that we have a good amount to tide us over to our next visit. Thus, it was well past time for Wayne and I to do a formal tasting of the goodness that Royce Neeley puts into a barrel! Last weekend, we did a two-day tasting, and we hope to inspire you to give them a try if you haven’t already!
Day 2: PawPaw’s Birthday Barrel Bottled-in-Bond, Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Madeira casks, The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey French Cognac Finish
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Mashbill – 76% Corn, 19% Wheat, 5% Malted Barley Age – 46 months Proof – 112.7 Other – Single barrel, triple pot distilled, non chill filtered, sweet mash, barrel char 2, barrel size 25 gal, yeast strand A-1. Price Paid – $41.39 (375ml)
Color – Medium amber
Aroma – Sweet corn, wheat, vanilla, brown sugar, and a bit of smokiness.
Taste – Barley, brown sugar, butterscotch, vanilla cream, almost a crème brûlée.
Tasted with dried cranberry – It brightened the taste to almost an effervescence, less sweetness, but lot of cinnamon.
Tasted with a pecan – A hint of chocolate, oak, brown sugar, with black pepper on the finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Creamy caramel, chocolate covered nut, with a sweet finish of toasted brown sugar.
Neeley’s wheated bourbon is always a favorite of ours. Perhaps it is the triple pot still approach or the way they treat the grains, but always fantastic.
Mashbill – 76% Corn, 19% Wheat, 5% Malted Barley Age – 52 months Proof – 111 Other – Single barrel, triple pot distilled, non chill filtered, sweet mash, barrel char 3, barrel size 30 gal, eight-year air seasoned barrel, yeast strand A-1. Price Paid – $51.74 (375ml)
Color – Medium amber
Aroma – The nose is complex with caramel, fruit, baking spices, some vanilla malt, brown sugar or even a bit of molasses, a very mature nose.
Taste – Wheat, barley, caramel, dark fruit notes, and a really nice finish of black pepper that goes well with the sweet notes.
Tasted with dried cranberry – A hint of chocolate but there is cinnamon on the front and more of a sweet finish. Great mouth feel – feels creamy … almost buttery.
Tasted with a pecan – This muted some of the flavor and brought some spices forward; somewhat of a spicy chocolate caramel.
Tasted with dark chocolate – This brought the chocolate, like a chocolate covered caramel with sea salt on it. Maybe a little bit of cherry in the middle.
We are very pleased that we purchased several of these bottles because it was a very limited barrel treatment. As noted on the tag, the barrel was aged outdoors for EIGHT years. While the treatment of the oak barrel is quite present in the taste profile, it doesn’t dominate in a negative way. Instead, it brings out a cornucopia of flavors.
Mashbill – 65% Rye Age – 28 months Proof – 108.9 Other – Single barrel, triple pot distilled, non chill filtered, sweet mash, barrel char 3, barrel size 25 gal. Price Paid – $42.39 (375ml)
Color – Medium to dark amber.
Aroma – Rye sweetness dominates, mint, herbal tea, a light baking spice, floral notes, very fresh, very natural, and inviting.
Taste – Mint, rye grass, floral, tea, light spice, pleasant rye bread and white pepper finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – Very floral with a white pepper finish, very nice.
Tasted with a pecan – Mellow and it brings it all together sweetness and it is just really good.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Chocolate, caramel, mint chocolate chip ice cream.
Neeley’s rye is outstanding. One of the most pleasant and enjoyable ryes to drink. As we were tasting, we kept wondering why we didn’t pull it off the shelf more often. Answer – we do not have a back-up bottle. On our next trip, we will remedy that!
PawPaw’s Birthday Barrel Bottled-in-Bond
Mashbill – Uncertain Age – at least 4 years Proof – 100 Other – Bottled-in-Bond Price Paid – $106
Color – light to med amber
Aroma – Stone fruit, nuttiness, orange zest, floral notes, and light baking spices.
Taste – Caramel, toasted brown sugar, orange zest and cinnamon on the finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – The cranberry is bringing a fruitiness forward, more citrus, and less cinnamon.
Tasted with a pecan – Chocolate malt – very nice with the pecan.
Tasted with dark chocolate – A great creaminess, a bit less chocolate than the pecan brought but the finish is more like a warm cinnamon roll.
Wayne, Rebecca, & PawPaw 2023
PawPaw signing our bottle
Overall, it’s a fantastic bottled-in-bond as it is rich in flavor and a lot of complexity. It is damn good. This bottle will forever be incredibly special to us. We purchased it at the 2023 Kentucky Bourbon Festival and we got Bottle #1. Most importantly, PawPaw was there – he signed the bottle and we got a picture with him.
We really hope (pretty please) that an annual release of a Birthday Barrel in honor of PawPaw’s birthday will continue.
Hidden Barn Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Madeira Casks
Mashbill – 70% Corn, 20% Rye, 10% Malted Barley Age – at least 4 years Proof – 100 Other – Finished in Madeira Casks Price Paid – $103.49
Color – dark amber
Aroma – The wine really comes forward on the nose as well as a creamy vanilla and some baking spices.
Taste – Honey, brown sugar, cherry, chocolate, light undertones of the madeira cask and a light yet warm finish. Very nice taste and overall experience.
Tasted with dried cranberry – This did nothing to enhance it and it made it oddly bitter with a stronger cinnamon on the finish.
Tasted with a pecan – This moved the focus to the spicy side and any hint of the Madeira is gone.
Tasted with dark chocolate – Much better with the dark chocolate as it added a creamy sweetness and the taste of chocolate dipped grapes with a nice warm finish.
This was our first time to taste a Hidden Barn bourbon. It was very good, and we liked it neat the best as that focused on the spirit and the finishing with the Madeira.
The Old Jett Brothers Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey French Cognac Finish
Mashbill – High Rye Bourbon Age – At least 4 years Proof – 109.9 Other – Finished in French Oak Cognac Barrels for 7 Months Price Paid – $123.41
Color – golden
Aroma – The cognac is there and the French Oak is bringing a strong vanilla note forward. Also, sweet corn, raisins, and toasted marshmallows.
Taste – Vanilla, vanilla cream pie with a nice pastry note, buttered raisin toast, the cognac is complementing it very well and there is also a lovely finish of baking spices, pepper, and oak.
Tasted with dried cranberry – With the cranberry, it lost the delicate notes and shifted to stronger fruits and french vanilla.
Tasted with a pecan – The pecan brought some French Oak notes forward as well as chocolate and caramel.
Tasted with dark chocolate – This is different and in a good way. Almost like chocolate covered grapes. This makes me want to have a pour of this with a dessert or instead of dessert.
The cognac and French Oak play very well together. In addition to being a good option after dinner, it might also pair well with a cigar.
Discussion and Final Notes
We have wanted to do this tasting for some time; however, we have a substantial “shelf” of Neeley’s spirits and selecting a few for a tasting can be a challenge. Thus, we decided on six and completed the tasting over two days.
Bottom line – they are all fantastic. You really cannot go wrong with a nice pour of a Neeley Family Distillery bourbon or rye. Perhaps it is the family tradition, using sweet mash, being triple pot distilled, or non-chill filtered, or a fine combination of everything they do. We only know that we personally enjoy each one.
Royce Neeley is truly a Master Distiller and continually produces some terrific spirits at Neeley Family Distillery. Give them a try!
Cheers – and always drink responsibly! Rebecca & Wayne
Sweet Mash: Sweet mash is a process in distillation that does not use the sour mash as a starter for fermentation. Instead, only fresh yeast is used. Using sweet mash has the benefit of more control over specific ingredients and the ability to use lower temperatures for fermentation. However, it does require more maintenance and extreme cleanliness to avoid contamination. For more information, please read this post – Four Stages of Making Spirits.
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: Such whiskeys have all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof. Straight bourbon means it is aged at least 2 years (and must have an age statement if less than 4). In addition, to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon, it has the additional requirement that it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Bourbon Whiskey.
Rye Whiskey Basic Requirements: Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. For additional information on bourbon requirements, please read this post – Rye Whiskey.
Bottled-in-Bond: must be produced in a single distillation season by a single distillery; must mature in a U.S. bonded warehouse for a minimum of four years; and the aged spirit must be bottled at 50% ABV (100 proof). For additional information on Bottled-in-Bond requirements, please read this post – Bottled in Bond.
NOTE: The spirits in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the spirit producers for this review. This is simply our opinion based on what we tasted on this day. Please drink responsibly.
For this tasting, Wayne and I tasted the latest release from Green River Distilling – their Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey. We purchased this bottle when we attended their Rye Launch Party on February 1, 2024. Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
Green River – the whiskey without regrets!
Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Mashbill – 95% Rye and 5% Malted Barley Age – A blend of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-old barrels Proof – 95 Price Paid – $37.99 Other – One of the coolest bottles around with the horseshoe base as a throwback to their historical DSP-KY-10
Color – golden amber
Aroma – doesn’t have a typical rye note on the nose; a lot of sweetness comes through such as honey, brown sugar, and a sweet fruit.
TastedNeat – citrus, like a sweet orange marmalade with honey and graham crackers, fresh rye grass but not as expected for a 95% rye, fruitiness but with a nice rye spice and oak finish.
Tasted with dried cranberry – reduced the sweetness and mostly muted the rye spice.
Tasted with a pecan – A new type of sweetness now, such as caramel and chocolate, but with pepper, cinnamon, and maybe some oak on the finish.
Tasted with dark chocolate – creamy sweetness of caramel, but with a stronger presence of baking spices and then pepper for the finish.
Discussion and Final Notes
This is rye provides a really nice ride. It is a 95% rye that drinks quite similarly to a bourbon. You know it is rye from the rye grass, slight mint, and rye spices; however, the sweet citrus fruit – such as orange marmalade plus the graham cracker tricks your mind to thinking about bourbon.
If we had friends over that said they absolutely do not like rye, I would pour them a taste of the Green River to see if we could change their mind.
This whiskey is also at a great price point of under $40 and should be readily available through regular distribution channels. I believe Green River is now in 25 states, so look for it on the shelves of your local liquor store.
Cheers, Rebecca & Wayne
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
Spirit Requirements
What is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey? Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye. It must be distilled at 160 proof or less. It then must be placed into a new, charred oak container at a proof of 125 or below. Straight rye whiskey is a subcategory of rye whiskey that has been aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels and doesn’t contain any additives. If aged less than four years, the label must include an age statement. To add “Kentucky” to the label, it must be aged for at least one year in the state of Kentucky. For additional information, read Rye Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
NOTE: The whiskey 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.
Please be sure to read our approach to Tasting Whiskey if you haven’t already.
What constitutes a rye whiskey? The US guidelines for rye whiskey are very similar to those of bourbon except that it must be at least 51% rye. In addition, rye whiskey often has other grains, such as wheat, corn, and barley. Rye whiskey must be distilled to no more than 160 proof, or 80% alcohol by volume (ABV) and it must be aged in new, charred-oak barrels. For additional information, read Rye Whiskey, part of the Sunday Spirit Notes.
Distillery – Jim Beam, Clermont, Kentucky Aged for seven years in charred barrels and bottled at 100 proof. Mashbill – 55% rye, 35% corn, and 10% malt Color – medium amber Aroma – sweetness of rye grass; hint of mint; caramel; ginger; green apple Taste – W: baking spices – nutmeg; R:less sweet, slight mint, tea, hint of dill and white pepper; with dried cranberry – W: nutmeg is stronger; R: rye grass and sweetness is back; with a pecan – W: leads with nutmeg; R: spicy/cinnamon, lost “flavor” Finish – warm linger; light spices and vanilla General Notes – A very solid pour of rye whiskey
MB Roland Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Distillery – MB Roland, Pembroke, Kentucky Single Barrel, Still and Barrel Proof 110.2 Proof Mashbill – 68% rye, 27% white corn, 5% malted barley Color – medium to dark amber Aroma – W: cherry sweetness; R: roasted nuts, sweetness of rye grass, brown sugar, clove, robust Taste – W: nuttiness, rye grass, then coffee; R: caramel covered nut, rye, mint, cocoa, buttery, all spice; with dried cranberry – W: rye grass bomb with mint & no finish; R: HOT and lost much of flavor profile; with a pecan – W: rye and cinnamon; R: rye and cinnamon Finish – W: coffee; R: warm, sweet, rye and cinnamon spice General Notes – This rye takes you on a journey of sweetness and spice and everything nice!
Still630 Rally Point Straight Rye Whiskey
Special Evansville Bourbon Society Barrel Pick Distillery – Still630, St. Louis, Missouri Single Barrel, Cask Strength 123 Proof; 4.75 years old Mashbill – undisclosed Color – medium to dark amber Aroma – W: caramel, sweet, smokiness; R: mint, sweet, rye Taste – W: rye, mint; R: mint, dill, sweet rye; with dried cranberry – W: very sweet rye grass, warmer; R: dark choc mint, citrus/orange, cinnamon; with a pecan – W: strong rye grass; R: much hotter, bitter choc Finish – W: warm cinnamon; R: warm cinnamon General Notes – A terrific cask strength rye and it is easy to see why they have won so many awards and typically sell out of RallyPoint
Discussion We enjoyed all three of these rye whiskeys. Knob Creek Rye is solid and easy very accessible with a terrific price point. The RallyPoint Rye was terrific and somewhat different from many Kentucky ryes. Since its proof was much higher than the others, we also added some water to balance it. Overall, that didn’t change the experience from our viewpoint. It is somewhat difficult to obtain and that kept us from ranking it higher. MB Roland makes a fantastic rye whiskey. It was the most unique of the three and also the most complex. As noted earlier, this rye takes you on a journey of sweetness and spice and everything nice! All things considered, we selected MB Roland Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey as our #1 pick.
All three are excellent options when considering a rye whiskey, and we certainly recommend each of them.
Cheers, Rebecca
Photos by Rebecca Herman McBrayer
NOTE: The whiskey 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.
Your Bourbon Journey 