Laws Single Barrel Secale Straight Rye

Though now considered an old rye, A.W. Laws Secale Straight Rye was a clear improvement for a distillery that I hope continues to refine its skills and make its mark in the whiskey world. I kept this bottle for years, knowing I would eventually review it. Its enjoyment and appeal were so strong that I couldn't resist revisiting it every few months over several years, pleased with what it offered and eager to sample more from the Colorado-based distillery. However, it's only now, as the bottle nears empty, that the urgency feels greater. It's time. INITIAL IMPRESSIONS - It's undeniable that this is a smooth rye with spicy notes throughout. The label describes it as "aggressive, full of character and unapologetic," but unlike, for instance, a Willett 4-Year Family Estate, it isn't overtly bold or immediately showy with its profile. It's more understated and sophisticated, yet not so much that it becomes uninteresting. This rye occupies a nice middle ground and could very well serve as an introductory rye for those new to whiskey. NOSE - Frankly, the aroma is a blend of traditional rye characteristics and unexpected elements. It reminded me of walking on a trail in early autumn. I detected scents of damp leaves and an earthy aroma mixed with vanilla cream, scorched caramel, and a subtle hint of anise. Further exploration revealed buttery popcorn and, surprisingly, melon. PALATE - The palate is light to medium in body and leans towards the drier side. A prominent woody flavor dominated, with other notes fitting in nicely. There was a pleasant buttery taste with hints of almond, sea salt, dried grass, corn, and a very faint herbal/grassy note. At 100 proof, its sippability and enjoyment are surprisingly high. FINISH - All things considered, the finish isn't very long, but it's genuinely more satisfying than many others I've experienced. It engages both the roof of your mouth and the back of the tongue as the tasting concludes. A pleasant warmth builds, subsides, then gradually returns. Overall, the finish complements the refined experience found throughout. It's very well-executed. WHAT I LIKED - This rye is somewhat gentle for a novice while still offering complexity for those with a more developed palate. While I usually prefer bolder, more vibrant ryes, this bottle is enjoyable, lighthearted, and provides something quite intriguing. CONCLUSION - Unfortunately, this bottle is no longer available. However, if A.W. Laws has incorporated the developing characteristics of this rye into their current products with additional aging, whiskey enthusiasts will be very pleased. What was present here is good and represents an even better foundation for the future. If you enjoy ryes and are seeking an alternative to the typical Kentucky Ryes, consider visiting Colorado to explore their offerings. I believe you will find the journey rewarding. (FWF Share #70 [4/13/2018]) Opened: 4/13/18 Finished: 1/17/21

This rye whiskey exhibits thick, watery legs and a golden amber hue. The aroma is sweet and vegetative, with hints of watermelon rind, green vegetables, cooking spices, dill, juniper, damp straw, and Smarties candy. The swallow is sharp on the back of the throat, but after that, one perceives sweet flavors of caramel, cinnamon, cherry candy, and kiwi. The finish is long, sweet, and woody. Cheers!

The aroma resembles a chocolate-covered orange stick from a specific candy shop. This taste carries through, concluding with a delightful hint of black pepper.

Spicy and intense - I adore it...though it might be too strong for some. I'm desperately seeking suggestions for something similar!

The aroma is great. The initial taste has a slight sharpness but transitions to a smooth finish. I would enjoy drinking this again.

The top rye in its market segment for the cost! Excellent rye character with a few whispers of a sweet toffee flavor.