Rittenhouse Rye Whiskeys

Rittenhouse Rye Whiskeys

Home Office

April 13th, 2010


21, 23, and 25 year old Whiskeys... Spirits that have been at rest in Oak barrels for over two decades... The bottles presented were simply staggering.

Written below the well-crafted label on each vintage is the bold print stating "100 proof." Now when considering spirits that are over 86proof, there seems to be a fallout on flavor especially on the finish due to the alcohol cutting it dry. With these Whiskeys however, it was NOT the case.

On the nose of the 21year there were wild spice/toasted oak that marry with the warmth of the alcohol to create an engulfing depth of flavors. Dark toffee and musky-straw the nose intrigues you as you surpass any and all prior conceptioins of Rye Whiskeys. The drink is stern with an amazing mouth feel and a finish that both lingers and warms your palate well onto the next sip.

The 23year had equal spice on the nose but with more butterscotch and candied tones underlying. The drink was full with earthy tones of barnyard/ rich oak notes which lead onto a lesser heat when compared to the 21. Again a long finish with dense fruits and cakespice lingering.

The nose on the 25year was literally like being trapped in a barrel room at a distillery. The fruits and vanilla tones on the nose were almost "humid" as each flavor cycled through your nose and mouth, while the oak was as prevelant as if you were chewing on a warm tree. For as much depth in oak tones that were found on the nose the drink was completely harmonous. Fig fruits and heavy toasted flavors throughout the drink with the finish seeming to cry out for a fine cigar, this Whiskey is truely crafted.

With an amazing show of aging potential, and with varrying profiles between the vintages, the quality and power of these Rittenhouse Rye Whiskeys are setting the standard in Rye spirits.

Cheers,
Casey Capper

Posted by Mark Fetter on April 15th, 2010 | Permalink