Today I am reviewing a rye whisky. If you have never had a rye I recommend giving it a shot. With a rye content above 50% these whiskies offer some great spicy notes that keep your palate jumping.
If you are a bourbon drinker you have most likely had a mash bit with at least some rye…..generally 5 to 10%. There are several out there with a much higher rye percentage, such as Four Roses Single Barrel or Old Forester. These are both very good and the rye really adds to the boutbon experience.
There are many great ryes (is that really a word?) out there in a range of prices. Among my favorites are Whistle Pig ($80), Jefferson’s Rye ($30) and Buillett Rye ($30). Each of these has a rye content of 95% or higher.
Today’s review is the Wild Turkey 81-Proof Rye Whisky. It has a mash bill of 65% rye, 23% corn and 12% barley. It was originally developed, in 2011, for the younger crowd and for mixed drinks. I will be drinking it straight, as I believe all whiskies worth drinking should. The cost was only $17 so I am not expecting too much.
The nose is floral and spicy. With the first sip you notice that the spiciness is there but is very mild. It also tastes very young. It could stand to spend a few more years in the barrel (it currently spends 4 to five years in the barrel). This would add to the depth of flavor.
The finish is short and has more burn than flavor.
If you have never had a rye before, and are not much of a whisky drinker, you may like this. BUT, if you enjoy a good whisky and want to try a good rye, stick with Jefferson’s or Buillett.
Doug #1
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