Leopold Bros. Three Chamber Bottled in Bond Rye (Collector's Edition)

Technological advancement is always positive, but sometimes the traditional methods impart a quality that's rare today. This is a prime example: it's made using the same three-column distillation process as pre-prohibition rye. It became uncommon because it was simply too labor-intensive. Through extensive historical research, custom stills, and using the same rye strain from the pre-prohibition era, the distiller recreated the old rye-making method. The nose and palate are unlike any rye I've experienced before—more akin to a Campbeltown single malt: rough, earthy, and gritty. In a good way. Instead of the typical rye spices, I'm detecting damp, earthy, and funky flavors. Completely unexpected. I only had a small 2-3cl sample, but this is one where judgment should be withheld until after a few more tastes. Take your time with it; its layers of complexity aren't found in modern rye. At $215-230 per bottle, it's extremely expensive. I'm unsure if I would buy a bottle at that price, but I would definitely purchase a few more samples.

I cannot let the year conclude without adding my voice to the widespread praise for what is arguably the most innovative whisky of the year. The Leopold brothers' meticulous recreation of a pre-Prohibition style still has yielded something truly distinct from any contemporary rye or bourbon. The nose is a sun-drenched garden of honey, jasmine, lavender, and ginger, complemented by warm lemon tea infused with additional honey. The palate's flavors begin with notes of brown bread and butter, then erupt like fireworks with ginger and black tea, underscored by a delicate floral nuance. I've sampled this on several occasions, and each tasting offers a new surprise. Consequently, while it is a very expensive whisky, it provides a unique flavor profile that warrants purchasing a bottle to share with companions.

Sample enjoyed at a bar. Tasted without knowing the identity and neat. Nose: Earthy, freshly cut hay, a touch of farmyard character, alcohol. Palate: Full-bodied, excellent texture, honey on the initial taste, followed by sweet tea and maple, then the rye emerges, with abundant mint and herbal notes. Finish: Extended, the mint and honey-maple linger, truly exceptional. Absolutely outstanding on the palate. Based on the aroma, I might have guessed a Canadian rye and was initially underwhelmed, but the taste was impressive. Is it worth the high price, 🤷‍♂️? Your mileage may vary. T8ke scale: 8, excellent, quite remarkable

It's decent, but not what I'd expect from a $200 bottle of rye. I couldn't find any other reason besides the distillery charging for their equipment costs, which is unfair! Perhaps recent batches justify the price. However, I strongly advise trying a sample at a bar before committing $200 or more to a four-year-old rye that might be over-extracted. Honestly, if you can still find the collaboration for $109, I preferred that expression more and would purchase it over this release.

Nose - The initial aroma is banana bread, reminiscent of fresh-baked rye bread from a farmers market. A very mild, earthy peat is present. Palate: A very peaty rye. It has notes of old leather and a musty barn, with a grassy character. Very light spice. Finish: An exceptionally LONG finish. Very oily, lingering on the tongue for several minutes. The finish is drier than others... odd considering the oily presence. Excellent. Worth the $250 price for someone who drinks on "special occasions".

Purchased from Costco in 2022 for $170. Nose: Difficult to describe. I'm not entirely sure what I'm detecting, apart from dill and rice grain. Sweetness upfront but very smooth. The mid-palate is more akin to freshly baked rye bread with a honey glaze. The finish is of medium length, featuring some light oak, perhaps licorice, and earthy mushroom notes? There's pepper towards the back, along with more grain. Distinctive and enjoyable.