Woodinville 8 Year 100% Rye

The aroma is potent and sharp, showing notes of barrel char, rye spice, fennel, dark rye bread, brown sugar, freshly cut grass, bubblegum, and oak. The ethanol level is pleasantly low. The taste presents an unusual rye character with abundant smoke and char, molasses, scorched sugars, tobacco leaf, leather, nutmeg, and pecan. The flavors are certainly rich and dense considering the proof. A significant amount of tartness and bitterness from the char overpowers the other elements. It lacks equilibrium. A long finish delivers notes of burnt oak, crushed pepper, cinnamon, and peppermint. Toasted oak aromas linger after all other sensations fade. The texture is thick and chewy, with a pleasing oiliness. The finish is drying. So. I really wanted to enjoy this immensely. While many aspects are appealing, the overwhelming presence of burnt/char notes overshadows everything. It's dense and dark, just not what I seek in a rye, but other critics seem to adore it, so perhaps it's just my preference. At $120, it's certainly not a purchase I'd repeat.

Nose: Cherries, cacao, spice, coffee, faint dried leaf, chocolate baked goods. Palate: Chocolate, coffee, spice, milk chocolate, malted milk balls, caramel. Finish: Lingering chocolate, coffee, spice, dark caramel, foamy mocha. Rating: 93/100 Summary: The aroma is incredible, really pouring out of the glass and perfuming the space. It's reminiscent of a gently spiced chocolate mocha pastry. The flavor profile mirrors the aroma, but introduces a pleasant malty light rye character. The rye spice is mostly subdued by the oak, yet a subtle presence remains. A very pleasing soft earthy leather note accompanies a sippable chocolate that persists endlessly on the finish. Would I have a drink if offered? - Yes Would I order this specifically? - Yes Would I purchase a bottle? - Yes

This spirit makes me feel like I'm relaxing by a cozy fire, wherever I happen to be. It's my favorite Rye so far.