Crater Lake Reserve Rye

Allowed to rest neat in a glencairn for at least 15 minutes. 96 proof/48% abv, aged 3 years in new American oak, produced locally. Nose: Sweet like cherries in syrup, with notes of rye grain, caramel toffee, and white pepper. Palate: The sweetness persists. There's a subtle hint of lemongrass and a grassy/hay note initially, which then gives way to a delicate cereal/grain flavor. The grains intensify, leading to a toffee and rye spice profile with a peppery, spicy foundation. The mid to late palate reveals caramel, tobacco, and a faint cherry cola. Chewing enhances the tobacco and brings out a leather/cherry note. Finish: The sweetness fades, and cereal and rye grains become more prominent. The peppery rye spice is present, along with some lingering baking spice. Leather and caramel are subtle in the finish and can be revealed with air. The finish is not long-lasting, likely due to the lower proof, but an oily, coating mouthfeel remains. Rating: 8/10 Thoughts: I truly regret not opening this bottle sooner. A good friend who enjoys bourbon has playfully teased me about my preference for higher proof spirits, and while I do favor proofs above 50%, this bottle has captivated me. It's precisely what a spicy rye should be. It possesses a certain delicacy in some aspects, yet is intense in others. I find myself contemplating the actual drink and its flavors. In essence, it's an engaging pour that demands attention. If you ever find yourself in the Pacific Northwest and have the opportunity, I highly recommend trying this.

I primarily detect spearmint and lemon zest on the nose. The aromas were subtle and not overpowering, but still pleasant. The lemon peel scent was quite nice. On the palate, the spirit first delivers a wave of white pepper, charred produce, and more mint, with undertones of roasted peanuts. Agave syrup notes appear faintly initially, then grow stronger through the mid-palate and into the finish. Pepper returns in the finale, but as coarsely ground black pepper, which I found more profound and earthy than the initial pepper notes. It's a respectable to enjoyable pour and a solid value for its price point.

Thin and dull. Lacks significant rye flavor, in my view. It's okay to drink, but not exceptional.

Anise on the nose and initial taste, with a pleasant rye character in the middle and finish.

Absolutely adored this one! Must find more!

Reliable local whisky. Very pleasing!