Templeton Rye 4 Year

NOTE: This is my first review after recovering from COVID-19, so my palate might be off. (It might have been off before too.) The aroma is of sharp star anise, fennel, and caraway seeds, with hints of wood lacquer and pumpernickel bread. Black peppercorns are present, along with a surprising touch of vegetal green pepper or red chili spice. As it sits, notes of candied prunes emerge, if such a thing can be perceived. I'm thoroughly enjoying the aroma. The flavor is surprisingly rich with prunes and figs, candied orange, and dry cinnamon spice. Almonds and pecans are also noticeable. There's an unusual taste of baby oil and candle wax, which complements the oily texture. The cinnamon and rye spice burn on the way down, which is unexpected for its modest 80-proof. The finish immediately brings charred wood, followed by brown sugar and mocha coffee grounds. Tobacco leaf, cowhide, spruce or evergreen needles, camphor oil, and spent matches are present. Black pepper spices and sawdust linger, despite a rather brief finish. I'm still exploring the world of rye, but my appreciation grows with each sample. This rye cuts through my current sensory limitations and provides a complex yet enjoyable spirit that works well either neat or in mixed drinks.

APPEARANCE/ Amber with Golden Tints NOSE/ Ripe Pear, Unripe Apple, Fresh Butter, Faint Grainy Wheat PALATE/ Sugary Cream, Candied Notes MOUTHFEEL/ Sugary, Silky, Creamy, Yeasty Bread, Hint of Greenness AFTERTASTE/ Silky, Mild Warmth, Orchard Fruit, Faint Vanilla Bean, Nutmeg, Touch of Sour Candy, Crisp. A subtle bitter sourness remains once the glass is empty. AROMA FROM GLASS/ Butterscotch, Toffee, Oak, Faint Pipe Tobacco Age: 4 Years Bottle Details: - Bottling Date: - Cask Date: - Cask No.: - Rack No.: - Alcohol Content: 40% Review Date: 02.10.2022 An excellent value! It's Creamy, Delightful, and straightforward. Not much peppery rye character. We bought a bottle and it vanished quickly because this is a mellow, flavorful, and approachable spirit. I suggest getting two bottles. 95% Rye, 5% Other Grain - MGP Rye. Whispers of artificial flavorings persist, yet it remains an enjoyable drink. Be Kind, Be Generous, Be Genuine, Be Mindful!!! CHEERS

Lime popsicle, sweet tarts, vanilla ice cream; lime sherbet, very sweet, medicinal notes, thin texture, some alcohol burn, almost no lingering taste. This is an older bottling I acquired at a significant discount. I recall reading that it might contain additives, which could explain why it's not labeled as a straight rye. It certainly seems that way. To me, it almost tastes like it's been mixed with a neutral grain spirit and possibly some sugar. My reasons are: 1) It has a very, very light feel in the mouth. 2) I used it in a cocktail once, and it seemed to intensify an alcohol note, as if neutral spirit had been added. 3) It's almost artificially sweet. That said, I've had far less pleasant whiskeys, and this one goes down sweet, smooth, and easily. I won't be buying another bottle, but it's an interesting example at the end of the MGP rye spectrum.

Nose: Woody spices with a hint of green apple. Palate: A pleasant warmth with cinnamon and brown sugar notes appearing toward the end. Finish: Moderately brief with a sweet pear note. Overall: A rather spicy Rye that is simple to drink for casual enjoyment. I wish the finish lasted a bit longer, but the flavor is pleasing, and I might consider purchasing it if found for approximately $30.

I was doubtful at first, but this wasn't bad. The nose had honey and graham crackers, with caramel and floral notes on the tongue. The finish disappeared quickly, almost completely, but there were some traces of spice. I'd be interested to taste a higher proof version of this.

As anticipated, a mellower, smoother version of their usual offering. It's very easy to drink straight, though it might lose some character; however, I could be judging too harshly. It does fade quickly when enjoyed neat, so keep that in mind. 😀