Hard Truth Sweet Mash Rye

After recently tasting the standard rye whiskey from Hard Truth, my research indicated other new whiskey releases from them, and I was eager to try this one. This was particularly exciting given the rarity of sweet mash, but at least they've included a substantial amount of rye, as it should be. I had resigned myself to never finding it in the awful state of Ohio, but I fortunately traveled out of state for work (and confirmed my new credit card functions), and discovered this among my purchases. Even though I verified this isn't a brand by Straight No Chaser (just a past collaboration for one of their shows), a barrel-proof, proper rye sounded like a significant improvement over the original rye whiskey (and a legitimate 115 proof, not that 105 "barrel proof" nonsense). However, for $72 a bottle (and marked down from its original price), the expectations are extremely high. After all, being a small distillery doesn't grant you permission to charge a premium without good reason; time is irreplaceable, and providing the "dumped on" date but not the barreled date isn't an auspicious beginning. The aroma begins pleasantly and simply. The rye grain is very prominent, both from its quantity and the alcohol content, with hints of cinnamon, mint, citrus, and a fair amount of red berries. I can anticipate the spiciness will readily (and thankfully) affect the gums upon tasting, but I'm quite interested in the subtler notes that are uncommon in other rye whiskies. As expected, the initial flavor is quite intense, with the cinnamon spice dominating the mint "spice," though it's still detectable as it tingles the gums, but not deeply. The rye grain shifts to a floral taste after a few moments, with a touch of citrus present, but the sweet/sour berry note from the aroma is absent. The finish is rather brief, as the floral and citrus notes are too delicate to be prolonged. Nevertheless, after a couple of quick sips in succession, the spices from the gums seem to re-emerge into the mouth, refining the final flavors with more recognizable rye characteristics. Additionally, this is where I first detect oak, mostly from a light barrel char, which complements the subtler notes of the taste; I wish this had been more apparent during the actual tasting. The scent from the empty glass includes a warmer cinnamon, similar to that found in a cobbler, more citrus and mint, and a slight hint of raw melon, like cantaloupe or honeydew. This is actually an intriguing and relatively distinct rye whiskey, particularly due to the floral, berry, and citrus notes that I haven't really encountered in any other rye. Given its young age, it appears the high alcohol content is the sole contributor to the more familiar spicy mouthfeel, so this was likely the optimal bottling strength. I would enjoy continuing to support this whiskey and purchasing it, especially since each batch will vary significantly due to the sweet mash, but it is definitively not worth $72. If this price point persists, this will be the last bottle I buy from this distillery, until the price becomes more reasonable, or until the age statement better reflects the demanded cost.

This whisky has a copper color in the glass. It cost $69.99 for a fifth at a specific liquor store in Albuquerque. It's 117.6 proof, and the age statement indicates it's over 2 years old. It's distilled in Indiana, but its origin (MGP or the brand's own stills) is unclear from initial information, though the young age might suggest the latter, as it doesn't taste young. Later information confirmed it's the brand's own product from Brown County, Indiana. The mash bill is 94% rye and 6% barley, similar to a well-known MGP rye recipe. The nose is complex, featuring cool spring water, brown sugar, honey butter, cinnamon rolls, milk chocolate, chocolate cake, and an unidentifiable buttery, savory note; I felt there was even more to discern. The mouthfeel is slightly creamy. The palate delivers dark brown sugar, milk chocolate, cinnamon, melted butter, and a pure sugary note reminiscent of rock candy. The finish is on the shorter side of medium, with notes of mint and eucalyptus, plus a hint of oak. It's a pleasant finish that I wish lasted longer. Overall, this is an exceptionally good rye whisky, nearly matching another brand but less aggressive with rye notes. It could appeal to bourbon drinkers who enjoy proof but aren't big rye fans, like myself. I rate this as 'Right Fine,' equivalent to 4.375 stars or 87.5/100.

Full details - Rackhouse #1, Batch 2, dumped 11/23/21, and 116 Proof...nose is light (as is the body) - corn and a nutty note emerge quickly giving me a feel of a light whiskey, but a few deeper inhalations produces more of the rye spice...including some grassiness and lemony citrus, and there's surely some ethanol at the backend. Interesting...I can see how this could be polarizing (and, to be honest, confusing), but its unique at any rate. Flavor starts off a bit on the hot side of the spectrum - definitely some cinnamon, before some of the spice and citrus emerge. While a bit of water doesn't do much to change the profile, a bit of glass time brings out a bit more on the palate. So, this is on the sweeter end of the spectrum for rye whiskey pours, and admittedly it does feel a bit youthful at times, so I understand a bit of the criticism. A touch of oak at the initial sip, but it fades quickly, and the finish isn't particularly long, which is a bit surprising for the proof. I've warmed up to this pour over time, appreciating the unique qualities, but recognize that it isn't the best value pour on the market right now. Now, I've tasted the KY Sweet Mash, and look forward to rating that down the road...

Rackhouse 002 Batch #10 30 Barrels Dumped on 2/6/24 120.6 Proof Smell: Young, with a lot of fruitiness. Sweet apples, strawberries, and a hint of citrus. Oak appears toward the end. Flavor: The aroma carries over well to the taste. A stronger brown sugar note is present, along with plenty of butterscotch. Chocolate and toffee are also detected. The middle of the palate is outstanding, filled with those wonderful sweet, dark flavors. However, the alcohol becomes too intense on the finish, which spoils the great mid-palate taste. A pleasant bubblegum rye note also emerges at the end. The warmth is substantial. Summary: A fair price, in my sincere view. A good addition to a collection, offering a distinct taste. I previously had the Master Distillers select and it was superb. This one doesn't quite measure up due to the harsh alcohol. With a lower proof, around 115, this could be excellent.

NOSE - Green apple, green jolly rancher, and honey. PALATE - Quite sweet with a hint of spice. The green apple and honey are noticeable on the palate. It lacks depth and boldness in flavor, and its youth is evident. Still, it's pretty enjoyable. FINISH - Surprisingly long. The finish consists solely of green apple skins. It's very smooth for its proof and enjoyable to sip. BUY? - Yes. The cost is high given its age, but I enjoy supporting craft distilleries and am eager to see its future development with age. BUY AGAIN? - I would consider store picks if I find them, and particularly future batches as this improves with age.

The aroma is quite expressive, immediately signaling a rye profile with its prominent spice. The initial taste delivers sharp rye characteristics: bready, grainy, peppery, and chewy, all unified by the vanilla and caramel from the barrel. There's also a fruity sweetness, like baked apples with brown sugar. As the flavors develop, notes of cocoa and lightly roasted coffee beans emerge, concluding with a dry finish. As a side note, the bottle design and cork are beautiful, showing thoughtful artistry. This is a definite success for rye enthusiasts. It's perfect for a Sazerac cocktail!