Darby's Reserve Rye Whiskey

I have previously enjoyed this Rye significantly, as have many acquaintances. I demoted it in my assessment after discovering it underwent fake, simulated, accelerated "TerrePURE" aging and is otherwise only 2 months old. However, it is quite distinct from any other rye, and enjoyable if you desire an extremely sweet, smooth rye (particularly when paired with a somewhat sweet meal). I generally favor it over even George Dickel Rye when seeking that profile, though Willett 3yr Rye and High West Double Rye are superior ryes generally that also complement a sweet meal, and Knob Creek Rye and Colonel EH Taylor Rye (when available) are considerably better ryes generally (though not sweet). My second favorite out of 50 spirits - George Dickel Hand Selected Barrel (9yr, 103 proof) - is the best sweet Bourbon / Tenseness whiskey that pairs well with everything, and is a much better choice if that is what you are after, though it is not a rye. It is undoubtedly one of the finest values among ryes, and better than typical MGP/LDI/Indiana sourced ryes from Bulleit, Russell's Reserve, and even George Dickel.

It has an amber color. Smooth and sweet, but it lacks depth and complexity. It will serve as a good sipper, but it's not one for deep contemplation. I tried it at a tasting in Moscow. Its regular price was approximately 27 euros, with a sale price around 20.50 euros.

This is not Rye. It's bourbon. It's not terrible, and it's not good. You can drink it. But it is absolutely not Rye in style or flavor.

Tastes of tobacco. Not smooth when consumed neat.