Is this the ultimate “Sith Lord” collaboration in the whiskey world? Today, we are in a New York state of mind right here in Frankfort, Kentucky! We are tasting the highly anticipated 5094 Transplant Empire Rye Whiskey, a special Tom Jones / Old Lewis Hunter Restoration Release. This incredible straight empire rye whiskey is a powerhouse collaboration between Glenns Creek Distilling and 5094 Distilling.
Mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged for over 4 years (54 months) in New York State, this bottle was acquired by Glenns Creek and 5094 in February 2026 and officially released in July 2026. Sitting at a robust 111.2 proof, this Single Barrel (Barrel 1, Bottle 59) features a heavy 94% rye and 6% malted barley mash bill. Best of all? It retails at an incredible SRP of just $51.89, and proceeds directly benefit Tom Jones’s passionate efforts to restore the historic Old Lewis Hunter Distillery!
In this episode, Wayne finally finds that elusive, bright “dill weed” note he’s been hunting for years in a rye whiskey—thanks to some expert guidance from our patron, Liz! We break down the exact, strict pre-Prohibition standards required by the Empire Rye Whiskey Association (including the 75% minimum New York grain rule and lower 115 barrel entry proof). We also dive into the tasting notes, tracking this pour from its fresh, grassy, outdoor nose of mint and dill to a surprisingly complex palate of almond, cocoa, coffee, and a light white pepper finish.
Is this a “buy, backup, and backup the backup” bottle? Find out if this unique Empire Rye completely changes how you look at craft whiskey!
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5094 Transplant Empire Rye Whiskey
- (Tom Jones / Old Lewis Hunter Restoration Release)
- Classification: Straight Empire Rye Whiskey
- Company: 5094 Distilling & Glenns Creek Distilling Collaboration
- Distillery: Mashed, fermented, distilled, and aged for over 4 years in New York; Acquired by Glenns Creek/5094 in February 2026.
- Mash Bill: 94% Rye, 6% Malted Barley
- Age: 54 Months (4.5 years)
- Proof: 111.2
- SRP: $51.89
- Released: July 2026
- Other: Single Barrel (Barrel 1, Bottle 59). Features distinctive mint and dill notes. Proceeds directly benefit Tom Jones’s efforts to restore the historic Old Lewis Hunter Distillery.
- Purchased: Bought in person for $51.89 on 7/4/26 at Glenns Creek Distillery in Frankfort, KY
🚨REMEMBER TO ALWAYS DRINK RESPONSIBLY🚨
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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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