Michters - Limited Release Barrel Strength Rye Straight

This is a whiskey you want to pour and nose awhile; aroma is its gift that keeps on giving. Banana and overripe pineapple give way to burnt orange, caramel and well-seasoned oak. Chocolate graham cracker and lemon peel arrive a bit later, though their influence is equally pronounced and welcome.

On the palate, it’s boldly rye-forward, though richly textured, honeyed, really. Its high-corn content presents a soft mouthfeel, but surely some of that is attributable to Michter’s low barrel-entry proof and its toasting of all its barrels before charring. Soon enough, though, the rye returns on the finish to deliver spice notes like white and black pepper.