I've had this bottle for quite some time before I opened it. I try not to review neck pours too often, but this is going to be one! I've always had a harder time finding the ryes than the bourbons; it must have lower distribution numbers.
Company on Label: Michter's
Whiskey Type: Straight Rye Whiskey
Mash Bill Percentages: Undisclosed
Proof: 92.8°
Age: 10 years
Further identification: Barrel No 20E949
Nose: Elegant sweet perfume notes; surprising for a rye. Greeted by a bright bouquet of florals and an anise-laced oak. Dry white pepper and a hint of vanilla. A signature Michter's cherry, but tinged with all sorts of new uniqueness for me. Something between paper & cotton, but it's definitely dry and light. Low in humidity & absolutely no funk, this nose shines primarily in its uniqueness & intrigue instead of one standout vibe. It's bright and almost inspiring; like nothing but good things can happen on a sun shining, lofty, wispy-cloudy day. Later in the glass the baking spices begin to work in. Black pepper, anise and herbals mix in well. Noses a little hot at times, but when you approach it from the right distance, you are rewarded with sweet vanilla and an oak bowl of cereal. Fun notes all through this.
Palate: So sweet and syrupy but in a thin candy way. That cherry note is fantastic. The mouth feel is super oily, but it doesn't stick around to bog down your taste buds. Strawberry, citrus, chocolate and molasses are all left lingering after the sip. A good chew can get the caramel rolling and it kicks out flashes of hot black pepper, light cinnamon and strawberry cream. Herbals stick to the back, but create a complex backdrop for the perpetual sweet maraschino cherry to shine. The finish is a wonderful highlight reel of everything I enjoyed about all of my sips. So nice I'm going to have another!
Rating: 4/5
