Castle & Key Restoration Rye 2021 (Batch 2)

The aroma is immediately sweet, with hints of mild spearmint, floral rye spice, creme brulee, and creamy charred oak. It's truly a treat for the senses as it's very distinctive and unlike most other Kentucky rye whiskeys. The way it's sharply yet mildly sweet on the nose truly sets it apart. The palate is gentle and full of floral rye that coats the mouth with a dry sweetness and sharp black pepper. Ripe fruit and charred oak follow, underscored by a strong wave of spearmint and charred oak. The finish is medium in length, with lingering black pepper and citrusy, floral rye. Spearmint and charred oak provide support to such an interesting experience.

I'm rating this a 4 because it's the first rye I've ever genuinely enjoyed. A companion introduced me to it at my local cigar spot, and I purchased a bottle shortly thereafter. For me, it has aromas and tastes that are new, so I can't describe it well yet. However, it's intricate, with similar smells and flavors; I strongly suggest you try it.

Aroma: botanical, spicy rye, caramelized sugar topping, butterscotch, caramel, all the cooked sugars. Flavor: sweet and botanical, followed by some warmth with cooked fruit, cinnamon, dark chocolate, and a very long cinnamon pastry finish. It leaves your mouth feeling warm and slightly numb, in a pleasant way. An impressive pour, and I'm very eager to sample it in AZ, where we don't have distribution.

A very good rye. My first time trying it neat. I had a couple of Old Fashioneds at the distillery during our visit, and they were superb. The venue itself is also quite beautiful. The neat experience does not disappoint either. It has an excellent viscous mouthfeel and is full of flavor. The finish is fairly short, but satisfying.

Hot and spicy. Sweetness and caramel linger after the burn fades.

Lots of flavor, not a lot of bite. Great.