Pikesville Rye Whiskey (750ml)

This is a welcome bold take on rye with superb aromatics of cracked grain, toffee candy, and orange liqueur. The amplified alcohol level shows no burn but rather imparts a gentle warming impression of toasted cinnamon stick.Look for a rich caramel-maple aroma and spice-forward flavor profile, showing allspice and clove, with a layer of vanilla underneath. Dilution tames this rye to show more vanilla, accented with dry touches of oak, leather and cocoa.

Aged at least six years, with woody depth to it at 6 years old: 110 proof-hot, stewed plum and horehound candy, and sizzling rye spice behind it. It’s a jawbreaker: full and hot in the mouth, with sweet grassy spice, bitter rye grain as it progresses, and crackling sugar near the end, just before it all smooths into a savory layered finish. Exciting ride, great ending. (Fall 2015) Reviewed by: Lew Bryson

Tasting Notes:

Color: Pale copper

Aroma: Dusty cocoa notes with oaky smoke underneath

Taste: Dry and spicy, with honeyed rye and cloves

Finish: Soft vanilla and baking spices