OYO Dark Pumpernickel Rye Whiskey

I'm reviewing this bottle after purchasing it in January. This is from a local craft producer in Columbus, Ohio, and I found it at my local Kroger for $45. It's marketed as "America's first dark pumpernickel rye," aged for a minimum of three years in new American oak. While I'm unsure of the exact mashbill, it seems to have a very high rye content, likely 90% or more, and is bottled at a solid 48% ABV. The appearance in the glass is a pleasing dark amber, leaving a substantial oily coating with adequate legs. The nose is unmistakably rye, brimming with spicy cinnamon, pepper, cloves, and subtle hints of mint or perhaps dill. It's quite inviting. The palate is more restrained, presenting as dry and spicy with notes of dark honey and hints of vanilla. The mouthfeel is somewhat thin, which is a minor drawback. The finish is notably long, with the warm, spicy rye lingering pleasantly. Overall, this is an excellent rye that delivers all the expected characteristics. At $45, it offers good value and is very enjoyable. I rate it 3.75/5.

Found some pumpernickel left over at North High Brewing when I was editing my dissertation. This sold out fast after it came out, but it probably wasn't as amazing as I'd hoped. It tastes like toasted dark grains with a pleasant, mellow pepper. It's golden and almost malty with sweet barrel notes. The finish is dark and strong, but it doesn't quite have the sourness you'd expect from a pumpernickel loaf. A decent whiskey that will improve. A second tasting after the first. The second batch was a lot better, even the leftovers I helped clear out. However, there's only so much of this you should drink at one time, or you might end up sleeping outside that night...

The nose is quite appealing, offering rye, oak, caramel, and vanilla. Rye becomes more prominent on the palate, yet it's balanced by oak, vanilla ice cream, and caramel, creating a rather rich and oily sensation. The finish is of medium length, with lasting rye and oak notes, while vanilla and caramel gradually recede.

Starts off smooth, with a gentle aroma and a slight sharpness upon finishing. The aroma, perhaps like pumpernickel, is occasionally peculiar. It's quite smooth and drinkable, yet it's missing a certain edge found in the others.

The nose has a spicy rye aroma with hints of dark fruit. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, with the dark fruit flavor lingering. This unique flavor makes it a favorite for sipping.

Very interesting. It's different and shows potential, but it's not quite there for me yet.