Hudson Whiskey Back Room Deal

While the group score is quite high, I'm not as keen on this rye as others. This isn't to say it's bad; in fact, it's intriguing, even strange in a good way. When I first opened it, I struggled to grasp its aroma and flavor, much like my team struggled in the game I was watching. I typically categorize rye whiskies into three main profiles: sweet (like cherry cola), spice-driven (like nutmeg and clove), or herbal. This one seems to blend the first two, maybe with a hint of the third. The nose is sweet but with a faint peaty, pine-like aroma, adding to the herbal character. It's a challenging dram, possibly not for everyone. I appreciate the peat and find the scent engaging, but the pine note is more like air freshener than a forest. It might be better if it were fresher or more natural, but I still enjoy it. As I explore more whiskies, I’m drawn to experimental choices with uncertain outcomes. This falls into that category. Some criticize cask finishing as a gimmick, but I see it as a creative way to add complexity, especially for newer distilleries. I commend this bold choice, similar to another finished rye I enjoyed, though that one was more successful. The palate offers a more direct sweetness with some baking spice, reminding me of a rye I had months ago. Though the comparison might not be perfect due to the time lapse and the peat, it made me want to revisit that other rye. My memory leans towards recommending the other rye for casual sipping, especially since it's less expensive. The price of this one is a drawback, but smaller distilleries often have higher costs due to lower production. However, my current preference is for the unique and unconventional. If you enjoy that other rye and also like peated scotch, this will likely appeal to you. The peat appears on the finish, after the cherry cola and vanilla fade, blending with clove and cinnamon for a nice spicy end. My score might be lower, but I am a fan. It's adventurous, unusual, and unique, and I value the experience. The liquid itself is strong and good, unlike the unappealing font on the label, which attempts to evoke the NY subway. I gave this the same score as a bourbon I recently tried, but this expression is more enthusiastic. Feel free to disagree, but consider supporting this emerging distillery if it sounds appealing. You likely won't regret it.

Despite its light body, Back Room Deal is full of character and offers a fascinating flavor progression. It begins sweeter than a typical rye, then the smoke emerges after a few seconds, accompanied by a subtle wave of peaty goodness. As this gently fades, a sweet caramel note persists throughout the remainder of the experience. The finish is fairly long, with a very faint hint of smoke at the very end. This is a very smooth and easy-drinking rye; the ex-Scotch aging imparts an elegant character without overpowering the vibrant American whiskey. Consider trying this with a fine cigar or after a meal of game and root vegetables.

Imagine rye, scotch (peat), and bourbon (barrel) having a child. Astonishingly, this is exactly what I didn't know I needed. It justifies the cost. Depending on the moment or mood, you'll detect all three components, sometimes simultaneously within a single sip. It might feel like a clandestine agreement with the devil, but tasting this good has never felt so right.

This is quite intriguing. My initial tasting from a freshly opened bottle was unpleasant, leading me to question if spirits could spoil. Revisiting it a year later, I had a completely different and favorable experience. It's advisable to try before you purchase.

Unconventional. When sipped neat, the aroma suggests rye with a slight smokiness. The initial taste is a combination of herbal and floral rye flavors with a more noticeable smoky peat taste. Adding a drop of water results in the same flavors but with added sweetness and a syrupy mouthfeel.

A whiskey that can be drunk straight. Still, it feels like a misrepresentation. Lacks spice. Lacks peat. Tastes more like a bourbon with a sweeter profile.