Crater Lake Straight Rye Whiskey

My Price: $29.95

Country/Area: Oregon, USA

Distillery: Crater Lake Spirits

Proof/ABV: 80 Proof/ 40% ABV

Mash Bill: 100% Rye

Barrel: New American Oak

Age: 2 years

Nose: Ripe Pear, Baking Spice, Bread

Taste: Fresh Fruit, Spice, Hay

Review: I have never gotten such a strong single note from a 100% Rye whiskey before. When I stuck my nose into the glass all I initially picked up was very ripe pear. After warming some whiskey between my palms, I was able to pickup on some of the classic rye notes including baking spice and rye bread. The Rye goes down easy at only 80 proof but still has a good amount of flavor. At less than $30 a bottle it is worth using in Rye based cocktails. The bottle tells all of the needed information such as where the rye is distilled, aged and bottled (Bend, OR) and how many years (2 years) it is aged before being bottled at 80 proof. The rye grain used is grown in the North West and only Cascade Mountain water is used. I love when I don’t have to do heavy research to learn all those facts. Add that it is a fantastic 100% Rye Whiskey and it really should have a home on your bar.

My Rating: Stock it. Low proof but great bang for the buck 100% Rye Whiskey.

May the miles you hike be filled with wonder and the glasses you raise be filled with whiskey.

Cheers!

Rating scale:

-Spit: Don’t bother with this one. If a friend gives you a dram of it, are they even your friend?

-Shoot: Good enough to get you drunk.

-Sip: Tasty enough to enjoy neat or on the rocks.

-Stock: I’d recommend keeping a bottle on hand.