Whitmeyer's Bourbon & Rye

From a Single Barrel selection at Fiesta Liquor, C32, with a proof of 106. It's a blend of MGP Rye and KY Bourbon, along with some bourbon distilled and aged in Texas. The color is very appealing. The aroma is quite pleasant and sweet, with a mild ethanol presence. Dominant notes of brown sugar and vanilla, with a very subtle hint of pepper. It evokes the scent of a high-rye bourbon, perhaps similar to a Four Roses Single Barrel 100 proof, though lacking some of its aged complexity. The mouthfeel is very agreeable (thanks to being Non-Chill Filtered), with a coating sensation of caramel that persists for a satisfying duration, allowing for thorough appreciation. Subsequently, the rye character emerges, bringing notes of pepper, rye bread spice, and sweet-tart apples. The finish is primarily influenced by the rye component, and I would have preferred more oak and bourbon presence. However, it lingers for a considerable time with that same tart apple and rye warmth. It drinks a bit hotter than its stated 106 proof. Overall, this is a very commendable offering from a local brand. I find myself repeatedly comparing it to the Four Roses 100 proof Single Barrel, which is a significant compliment for a young distillery in Houston. While it still needs more oak on the finish, it effectively highlights the spice notes of younger rye. The price point, around $40, is also comparable to the Four Roses. This also drinks a bit hot, but possesses a higher proof and is NCF compared to the Four Roses 100 proof SiB. This is a solid choice and will likely be a regular in my collection as long as it's available. It won't astound you, but it's very good. I'm eager to sample other batches. The blend is harmonious and provides a rich, varied flavor journey. Kudos to Travis Whitmeyer.

Nose: intense, sweet honey, vanilla, caramel, and cherry with a sprinkle of corn and mild baking spices. Palate: oily and rich mouthfeel. Honey, vanilla, light cherry, with a caramelized corn note. Towards the back half of the taste an eucalyptus and herbal note appears and finishes with an oak impact and baking spice. Final thoughts: A friend recommended I purchase this, saying "it tastes like a $60 whisky in a $37 bottle". If this was priced at $60, I'd still buy it. It's just a very rich and flavorful experience both on the nose and palate. For pairing, I'd argue that this is a whisky to be enjoyed by itself. However, a cigar pairing that has medium/medium-full bodied notes of cinnamon, oak, and baking spices would be very enjoyable. Disclaimer: the requested whisky lists a 55.8% abv, however, my identical bottle is 50.5%. I believe proof on this whisky varies from batch to batch. Mine is specifically batch 7.

I'm not a fan of rye, but this is good stuff. I sampled it during an extensive evening of whiskey tasting but couldn't take detailed notes. 1. Disgusting - Unpalatable, I discarded it. 2. Poor - I would avoid drinking it. 3. Bad - Noticeable flaws. 4. Below average - Not terrible, but I'd prefer other options. 5. Good - Standard quality. 6. Very Good - Above average quality. 7. Great - Significantly above average. 8. Excellent - Outstanding. 9. Incredible - A personal favorite. 10. Perfect

I really want this to be great because I like the bottle design and supporting our vets...that said, the aroma is sharp and followed by a pleasant bouquet, the vanilla disappears quickly followed with heat - thin & young. The rye starts showing itself by the 3rd sip - the peppery finish is very nice. A little age and this would be my top choice. Proof 110.4 Batch 12

Potent! It assaults you with sweetness and heat, yet this bourbon rye leaves a sweet impression. Woody tones and a subtly charred butterscotch note emerge as the spirit rests on your tongue. It's a fine companion for a warm fire and a chilly evening.

Tasted two bottles blindly; one at 107 proof and the second at 113.9 proof. Both had a strong presence of chewy plum and fig, a rich spicy finish, moderate burn, and a honey aroma.