Whistlepig 18 Year Double Malt Rye (1st Edition)

Rating: 15/23. My experience with this brand hasn't been particularly impressive; I prefer a different expression for the price, while others have been disappointing and costly. The initial aroma isn't strong, but a spicy, dry wood scent develops, with subtle herbal undertones. It primarily smells like wood with added complexity, then shifts to a distinct leather aroma, which is agreeable. Faint, non-floral vanilla emerges from the leather, possibly with a hint of soap and lemon. The smell is acceptable, but not remarkable. The taste is intensely woody and leathery, perhaps excessively so. The soapy note reappears with the leather and a hint of lemon zest. There's also a spicy kick that feels somewhat harsh. I dislike the soapy flavor. Eventually, some vanilla becomes noticeable, which is pleasant but not particularly exciting. The finish mercifully offers a substantial amount of vanilla. A trace of lemony soap remains alongside a subdued leather undertone. While this might improve the palate, it's still not very good. In comparison, I favor the other expression, finding it more engaging. This lacks character, and once the peculiar soapiness was detected, it was impossible to ignore. The leather notes are quite appealing, but other options exist for a similar profile at a lower cost. Considering the leather, the quality is comparable to the other expression, so it's not a bad offering. I'm leaning towards a score of 14 or 15, settling on 15. It's just more interesting.

It’s been a while, friends! Tis the season for vacations.... and holiday parties.... and +1’s. I will keep this brief as holiday parties are neither the ideal place for detailed notes nor Glencairns. But I do consider myself lucky for getting to test the limits of just how “open” the open bar was. It was pretty open considering I got my hands on a very generous pour of Whistlepig Double Malt Rye 18 Year Old... Very light and fresh herbal nose. Surprising lack of spice. Soft, creamy, and relatively light bodied on the palate, with predominantly herbal notes. Vanilla, lemongrass, mint, and other garden herbs. The conclusion was nice and long, with oaky chocolate and a bit more spice coming through. All in all, an inoffensive offering but it didn’t really jump out to me as extraordinary and it definitely didn’t make me want to run out and drop $600+ for a bottle (even if it has a very classy, hand-pressed top). I wouldn’t recommend purchasing a bottle - try to find a pour first if you are deeply curious about it but even then I’d hesitate to pay the asking prices. I’d rank this along with other drams that are fairly well executed but also not all that memorable. Thank goodness I didn’t have to pay the iron price to sample this! 3.5 ~ Above Average

It is December 18, and I will sample a different rye whiskey daily throughout this month. My rye knowledge isn't as lacking as my Scotch knowledge was at this point last year, but I am always receptive to recommendations for excellent rye whiskies. With objectives established (it's beneficial to have aims), there are certain key bottles I could use assistance locating. Forward your most potent selection. Objectives (condensed): Five ryes. Four and a half stars. Easily purchased. (3/5: WT101, Whistlepig 10, Whistlepig 12) I desire to distinguish between any bourbon and any rye. First attempt. One of these must be an Empire Rye. I seek a rye that evokes expletives. I want the one that resembles accidentally pouring out your initial two-ounce serving onto the floor. I truly wish I were fabricating this. I could calculate the precise monetary value of this carpet blemish. I shall refrain.

Excellent. Nose: Honey, Mint, Vanilla, Grass, Dill, Cloves, Caramel, Cherries, Peaches, Maple Syrup, Cinnamon, Pears, Red Apples, Papayas, Oranges, Mangoes, Walnuts, Lemon Syrup, Grapefruits. Palate: Dark Chocolate, Oranges, Peaches, Raisins, Apricots, Cherries, Caramel, Mangoes, Guava, Pepper, Cloves, Sourdough, Vanilla. Finish: Vanilla, Anise, Licorice, Oranges, Apricots, Papayas, Pineapples, Pears, Kiwis, Honey, Peaches, Honey, Nectarines, Spearmint, Grass.

Seriously, I don't get why this doesn't have a perfect score! Easily the greatest Rye I've ever had. And to those who live in fear of being ostracized for enjoying something great – get over yourselves! You're missing out if you don't try a little of this amazing drink. Happy sipping, friend.

Smooth on the nose and palate, leaning towards a bourbon profile rather than the expected spicy character of this brand. It redeems itself with a long, chocolatey finish. Worth a try if offered, but not essential for a home collection unless the attractive bottle is a priority.