The port cask maturation for this rye imparts a robust and distinctive flavor profile. I find it very appealing; it significantly enhances the typical notes found in a rye. The aroma carries much of that classic rye spiciness, along with some fruitier notes, likely from the port cask. It has a strong flavor on the palate as well, with the rye's spice being somewhat less pronounced than in the aroma. Those fruity notes from the smell truly dominate the palate, and I can identify raisin as a specific flavor among everything else. The finish has a notable amount of smoke that complements the spice and fruit flavors from earlier. Hillrock Port Cask Finished Double Cask Rye possesses many characteristics of a classic rye whiskey, and the port cask finish is an interesting addition to the style.
Hillrock Estate Port Cask Finished Double Cask Rye
Whiskey Rye New York No age statement 45% ABV
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About this bottle
The basis for this rye whiskey is Hillrock’s Double Cask Rye, made from 100% organic rye grown at its Hudson Valley, NY distillery. It is initially aged for 2.5 years in a new oak barrel with a No. 3 char, followed by an additional year and a half in a new barrel with a No. 4 char. Master Distiller Dave Pickerell then finishes this whiskey with a 4 to 6 week maturation period in ex-port barrels. Although technically a triple cask maturation, "Port Cask Finished Double Cask" is considered more appealing.
How it tastes
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Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 6 parsed reviews.
Port is barely noticeable on the nose and palate. There's no indication of a port finish on the bottle, and I wouldn't be shocked if it wasn't. To be clear, I purchased the port finish online. There's some clashing sweetness that I'm blaming on the port, but it doesn't blend well with the rye. This also seems too young for my preference. The nose and palate are grainy. That said, for a distillery focused on growing and producing its own ingredients, I'm alright with it. From a cost standpoint, it's not a bargain, but I'll support their efforts.
Deep and rich. The color is beautiful. I detect cedar and tea in both the aroma and taste. This is a rather distinctive spirit, and while it's not something I crave every day, after a few initial sips, it usually satisfies nicely. It's not for everyone and comes at a high price, so sampling it first might be a good idea before committing.
I appreciate that it's finished in port barrels, and you notice it right away. Hints of nutmeg and a port wine flavor.
Acquired this while visiting the distillery for a tour and tasting. Wonderfully mellow.
Aromas reminiscent of strong tobacco and rum, with a powerful rye kick on the tongue. Truly one-of-a-kind.
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Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.
