J.W. Kelly Melrose Rye Finished in Amarone Cask

An intense Rye Whiskey from Chattanooga, Tennessee. It was initially matured in American white oak barrels, then finished in an Amarone Cask. It has a rich beginning with notes of dried fruits and spice; a balanced middle adds notes of rye, cherry, cinnamon, and vanilla; leading to a dry and creamy finish of medium length with more cherry and spice. June 2019 / August 2022

This is not for those who enjoy very peppery, high-proof Ryes. However, if you appreciate a good, subtle smoky sipper, it's worth trying. The flavor is rather distinctive but pleasing. It lacks the typical clove, cinnamon, vanilla, or caramel notes found in most Ryes, offering more malt, smoke, and leather instead. It's akin to the Irish Whiskeys it's based on, with a slightly sweet finish.

Although I generally don't care for rye whiskies, this one is quite enjoyable. It's among the best ryes I've sampled.

Delicious. Rich and smooth with a subtle smoky finish. A hint of clove.

Spice notes, like cinnamon.