Minor Case Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey

Selected from the Rye Me A River barrel, this 115 proof (57.5% ALC/VOL) was bottled on 10/14/24 from barrel MC093. My recent visit to Limestone Branch was very enjoyable; I'm pleased this remains my preferred distillery, consistently producing new, accessible products at a healthy pace. I previously found the classic Minor Case's prominent sherry notes overwhelming, so I was thrilled to discover an unfinished version, aged for a solid six years (appropriate for rye) and presented as a high-proof single barrel selection. As an MGP product, it likely features the desirable 95/5 ratio, but carries the potential drawback of tasting similar to other MGP ryes. Its color is more light brown than gold, with uniform shades in the glass. The aroma is quite pronounced, offering notes of strong spearmint, cherries and berries, lemon zest, significant sweet oak, and an undefinable earthiness/minerality. The proof is noticeable but sits at a level that might deter casual drinkers; however, repeated smelling suggests the ethanol contributes more to spice than a harsh burn. The initial taste includes a hint of the aforementioned berries and a slight maltiness, followed by prominent baking spice and that spearmint hitting hard on the powerful rye finish. The spice tingles the gums but subsides reasonably quickly. The finish reintroduces some fruitiness after it calms, emphasizing banana with a touch of caramel sauce. Amidst the criticisms of American whiskey, I appreciate that MGP continues to produce excellent and consistent rye whiskey. This is one of their spicier offerings, yet it's not overpowering, balanced by fruit flavors on either side. The bottle's appearance, with slightly worn painted embossed lettering, is also a positive; I will certainly seek out new barrel selections on future visits to this distillery/bottler.