Dad's Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey (Discontinued)

Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey 47.5% ABV This is a pleasant Rye whiskey from Dad's Hat, situated just outside Philadelphia in Bristol, PA. It's a 3-year-old Straight Rye whiskey with a mash bill of 80% Rye grain and 20% Malted Barley. It's interesting to see a mash bill that isn't 100% Rye and avoids corn entirely... Sounds excellent, doesn't it? The aroma offers notes of fresh rye, dill, baking spice, menthol/eucalyptus, and a light vanilla. The taste delivers a nice warm spice with very little heat. Flavors include pepper, clove, freshly cut grass, and a touch of honey. The finish is medium to long, featuring menthol/eucalyptus, pepper, and baking spice. I was initially hesitant about this whiskey, as some other craft Pennsylvania Ryes have been disappointing. I'm pleased to report that this one is very good and reasonably priced. I believe I paid around $60, which might seem high, but in the current whiskey market, finding a High Rye "Straight Rye" whiskey of 3-4 years for much less is unlikely. Kudos to Herman Mihalich and John Cooper for crafting this Rye. This was my first bottle from Dad's Hat, but it certainly won't be my last. I'm eager to try their entire selection. They offer a Port-finished Rye that I'm keen to acquire... They also have a vermouth-finished rye – that sounds intriguing, but I might sample it first. Overall Rating: B+

This dram has been somewhat puzzling. The label indicates 'rye,' yet the initial aroma carries notes reminiscent of a Speyside scotch, and the flavor profile is unlike anything I've encountered before. It took four servings before I began to appreciate it. Some might find that excessive, and I might agree. If you're accustomed to Canadian Ryes, this may not suit your preferences. This whiskey requires effort to discern the spice and appreciate its qualities. While that might be an enjoyable challenge for some, it's less appealing if you're seeking a dependable, flavorful, and spicy rye. (FWF share #40) Opened: 06/13/17 Finished: 01/30/18

I find it perfectly acceptable. My palate has developed a preference for bourbon, so experiencing a traditional rye is a distinct sensation. Consequently, I'm not accustomed to the spicy, almost minty bite of this rye, but the finish is still quite pleasant. I detect a cedar/woody flavor, and the heat on the finish is intense yet surprisingly enjoyable. For the moment, my rating is somewhat high, but I need to explore more rye offerings to assess its standing. However, it is flavorful and, in my opinion, worth the price.

Initially, I did not care for this, but it gradually grew on me. I was then surprised to see it so highly praised by experts. The nose has an aroma of sweat and body odor, fitting for a whiskey named Dad's Hat. However, the finish is smooth for a whiskey, which I must acknowledge.

I got very little spice. Very very smooth and enjoyable No reason to put on ice. Would be great in cocktail with other strong spirits.

A very standard, peppery rye whiskey. It wasn't my favorite. Sampled November 29, 2016, at Murray's Cheese Bar.