Dillon's Three Oaks Rye

The aroma is a powerful wave of honey and vanilla, with faint traces of the rye grain. As I taste and swirl, the palate detects black pepper and more rye grain combined with intense honey and a green apple. In the throat, the rye and black pepper notes are more prominent, with a minty or sage-like note also present. The honey and vanilla are subtle. The aromas are fleeting but linger in the throat and coat the tongue with oak and pepper. Aroma score: 2/5 due to simple and mild notes. Taste score: 3/5 as more complex layers of flavor emerge and leave a lasting finish. A very pleasant whisky that is easily drinkable and would likely be excellent in a rye and ginger. Overall score: 3/5. Repurchase: Yes Type: Everyday Drinker/Mixer

The tasting notes align reasonably well, but I'm not as thrilled. I detect the bright mineral quality, the grassy and burlap notes, and perhaps even a hint of peach/apple sweetness, but it primarily tastes like young, raw rye grain with a touch of oak. It resembles a slightly aged High West Silver, with a comparable alcohol percentage (unlike High West's higher proof). I really wanted to enjoy it due to its local origin, but sadly, like another producer's gin, their rye comes across as the work of a young and inexperienced distillery. They're trying hard but haven't quite nailed it. Priced at $40 in Ontario.

This is a young dram that presents the alcohol and water prominently. With more attention, an interesting chocolate note emerges in the nose. Otherwise, it's light caramel on the nose, a cereal sweetness with a herbal touch and mild spice on the palate, wax, and some light oak on the finish. Unfortunately, it quickly turned bitter. The nose shows potential. Perhaps with more aging.

An acceptable whisky, but not an outstanding introduction either. On its own, it was a rather average rye; however, it performed well in a classic Manhattan cocktail. Not overly impressed by this initial offering, but it's great to see a small-batch distillery releasing spirits. I anticipate future releases from Dillon's.

Light, bright, smooth, with a slightly creamy finish, it's an easy sipper - so delicate I would never mix it or chill it, perhaps only with a tiny bit of soda. I enjoy this as a simple drink, but there isn't a great deal of complexity to explore in terms of distinct tastes. It's good if you want to consume a lot without realizing the effects.

More flavor than the color suggests. Initially very sweet and cereal-like, it quickly yields to a light spice and smoke. It's distinctive, and I find myself returning for more.