Riverset Small Batch Rye

Nose: The dominant smell is rye, but there's also a strange (yet pleasant) mint gum aroma. Spearmint, perhaps? Palate: Once again, the spicy rye flavor takes center stage, but excellent oak and clove notes come through. I anticipated a very thin mouthfeel, but it's quite the opposite. It coats the tongue well and is packed with flavor! Finish: Medium in length. I expected some burn from a 93 proof rye, but it's not really there. Extremely smooth. Overall: This might be the best $29 bottle of whiskey I've had. I've always been a big fan of Baby Saz, but Riverset surprisingly surpasses it in every aspect. This whiskey is destined to win awards, and rightfully so. If you can find it, get a bottle. Actually, get two bottles. You'll be glad you did.

The aroma is somewhat subtle, with notes of mint, crème brûlée, caramel, cherry, melon, and pumpernickel. The palate is dominated by sweet vanilla, yet a robust spicy rye character persists. Additionally, I detect apple, cherry, leather, cinnamon, and oak. The finish is spicy and dry. A very worthwhile purchase around $30, quite accessible while still offering a distinct rye presence.

A noticeable warmth initially, but it goes down smoothly. A pleasant drink to savor. I prefer it slightly chilled with ice to help it open up. A little goes a long way.

A decent rye. The finish is quite prolonged and not particularly pleasant, but I appreciate the initial flavor.

Great initial taste, but the aftertaste is strong and bitter, which was unpleasant.

Smoky rye. I truly enjoy it. It has surpassed Sazerac as my go-to inexpensive rye.