Journeyman Distillery Not a King

This rye whiskey from Journeyman Distillery is part of a throwback mashbill from the George Washington era, likely an annual February release tied to the Pres Day holiday. It has a pleasing orange hue and a youthful aroma of rye bread, spices, and fruit. The palate is syrupy with maraschino cherries and triaminic, followed by pepper. It offers decent rye spice and warmth but lacks memorable qualities, placing it in the middle of the pack. I had higher hopes. It's worth a try but not a purchase. Journeyman's commitment to organic ingredients and their status as a leading craft distillery are commendable. However, paying $45-$50 for an average product when better quality options like High West Double Rye are available for less is a difficult decision. Cheers.

Journeyman's Not A King Rye - Both noses are excellent. Initially, I get a pleasant, tart green jolly rancher. You have to be careful not to inhale too deeply. It's slightly lighter and brighter than the first one. It eventually opens up to pear as you explore further. Vanilla ice cream, pear à la mode. The nose keeps changing as the last sip lingers. That lightness continues onto the palate, and the pear flavor becomes more apparent. Wow, yes, PEAR! A light and almost toasted oak? The finish could be stronger. It doesn't quite deliver the full experience I desire through the mouth and is limited to the center of my tongue. The pear flavor remains until the end, but I think it would be better at a higher proof.

Slightly medicinal aroma. This medicinal note carries through to the palate to a small degree. Classic rye spice flavor follows, leading to a moderate level of heat and finish. A solid rye whiskey. 9/28/22 - Sampled during our rye whiskey tasting. The nose had a musty grain aroma, followed by a dark fruit note on the palate. The finish was short with a mild warmth. I still enjoy this one, but their Cask Strength Last Feather Rye is far superior in my opinion.

From an advent calendar tasting, day 25: The initial scent is bright, with fruit, vanilla, and strong woody notes. It has a mild, full-bodied bourbon character in the middle, followed by a lengthy finish with caramel and a tingling alcohol sensation.

A good, reliable rye. Not quite as excellent as Last Feather Rye, but a solid choice with spice and vanilla notes. Any spirit from Journeyman is worth trying or buying.

Decent rye burn. A little harsh on the nose. Rye spice, caramel, and cherries on the palate. Another great whiskey from journeyman’s.