The Senator Barrel Proof Straight Rye (Fall 2018)

Bottled in Winter 2020 Alcohol content 58.5% Aroma - For a rye with this grain bill, I anticipated more spice. Instead, there's a pleasant harmony of citrus, dark fruits like plums and blackberries, alongside rye and hay. As it airs, subtle cinnamon and nutmeg emerge. The oak influence is remarkable, providing a solid foundation that maintains perfect balance. Truly well-crafted and very inviting. Taste - Black licorice comes to mind. While not exceptionally complex, it's very well-executed. The initial taste is surprising, featuring common bourbon notes like vanilla, caramel, and oak. Mid-palate, I detect a flash of citrus. The rye spice appears only in the finish, with notes of pepper, baking spices, and a very faint hint of cinnamon. It's surprisingly light with a medium to thin body. The finish is medium at best. Overall - I found the aroma more appealing than the taste. This is a very well-made rye, but I believe it's slightly overpriced. For the $70+ price point, I expect something truly distinctive. This offering lacks the complexity and uniqueness on the palate. It's exceptionally smooth and well-balanced, but I can't help but compare it to other options like Willet 4 year, Rare Breed Rye, Smooth Ambler Founders, Pikesville Rye, and Stellum Rye, which I find to be superior and more affordable.

I was pleasantly surprised when tasting this blind. I certainly didn't identify it as a 95/5 MGP mashbill due to the complete absence of dill, leading me to question if it might be their 51% rye. Regardless, it was quite good. I would purchase a bottle around $60, but not at the inflated prices currently being asked.

The aroma is sweet, carrying expected rye characteristics. The palate is slightly sweet for 121 proof, with some spice, and finishes with an overwhelming mintiness that reminds me of brushing my teeth.

Brown sugar, vanilla, hint of cherry, and some herbal notes in the nose. Flavor is slightly sweet, a little heat but finishes smooth. Nice mouthfeel.

It starts with pleasant vanilla and oak notes, but then becomes unpleasantly hot and somewhat artificial. The finish is medium length; I anticipated more body from a 6-year barrel-proof spirit.

Smooth from start to finish. Acceptable upfront. Citrus notes are present.