Sonoma Distilling Company Cherrywood Rye

A robust Rye Whiskey from Adam Spiegel Sonoma Distilling Company in Sonoma, California, bottled at 46.5% ABV. It begins aromatically with hints of grain, wood, cooked fruit, nuts, herbs & spices; a full mid-palate adds notes of rye spice, dried apricot, ripe cherry & mint; culminating in a warm, medium-length finish with notes of vanilla, allspice, white pepper, cinnamon, burnt brown sugar, walnut & cherrywood smoke. December 2023

This rye presented with a copper color and thin, semi-watery legs clinging to the glass. Initially, the aroma struck me as odd and fruity. I detected funky sap, the scent of an old, dusty book, caramel, plum, apple, cherry confection, eucalyptus, alcohol, and barnyard straw. The taste was watery and sweet, featuring brown sugar, Cutie oranges, cherry candy, dill, and lemon zest. The finish was medium in duration and zesty with orange. To your health!

An impromptu Old Fashioned after bidding farewell to a beloved 13-year-old companion (pet). A tribute to my dear friend. This bottle was a gift for my 50th birthday. Initially, I wasn't impressed, but as I continued to sip, it grew on me and became comfortable, regardless of my preferences. Much like my dear friend. Certainly worth a try. It makes an outstanding Old Fashioned.

The nose presents plums, caramel, and rye. The taste is somewhat thin, reminiscent of a diluted Willet rye with cherries, dried fruit, and lemongrass. Cherry flavor lingers on the palate for a moderate duration.

Whisky in a pouch. Smells like bourbon. The taste is smooth initially, quickly turning fiery with spicy rye and alcohol burn. Flavors include sweet cherry, oak, and caramel. It's a little rough but I quite enjoy it.

The nose is profoundly malty. It gives off the scent of a grain field. The palate echoes this, tasting like nibbled cereal grains with a spicy rye note and a robust body. It's pleasing, though the pervasive grain character is a little much.