First Call Kentucky Straight Rye

This was on a recommendation from an employee at "my" Total Wine store, when he learned that I wanted Bulleit rye but they were out of fifths and I didn't want to get an entire liter. I had hoped, therefore, that this would remind me of Bulleit, but in fact it's the weakest rye whisky I've had thus far. I couldn't find any information about the mash bill - all I know, therefore, is that it's at least 51% rye. It's 90 proof, the age is a minimum of three years (according to the label), and it's a coppery gold color in the glass. On the NOSE this is a simple whisky. I got a light whiff of alcohol, and spicy grass. When I came to TASTE the whisky, I found a creamy mouthfeel. There was some spice, but nowhere near what I expect from a rye whisky. There's a faint grassy note, and an undertone of milk chocolate. The FINISH is short, and gives chocolate, oak, and spice. It's an all right whisky, and unlike some things I've tried I won't toss this out, but it's not worth the price.

A complex, Straight Rye Whiskey by Master Distiller Kevin Curtis for IJW Whiskey Company in Kentucky made from a blend of 40 different mash bills & aged in charred American oak barrels & bottled at 90 proof. It has an aromatic birth with notes of grain, fruit, wood & spice; while a complex life adds hints of rye, citrus peel & vanilla; that led to a long & warming finish with notes of oak & smoke. December 2021 / August 2022

Smooth and enjoyable with hints of spice and sugar. Has a slight note of cinnamon on initial bite with a savory after taste. Historically I'm not a rye fan but I really like this one.

Very light nose. Fruit and caramel notes. A bit harsh for the proof. It’s acceptable for the price range.

Roasty, Smokey. Don’t add to a sweet Old Fashioned. It contrasts the sweetness of orange, and cherry.

A bit soapy with a strong creme de menthe in the finsh . Not very pleasant.