Angel's Envy Rye Whiskey (750ml)

"If whiskey could be a dessert, this would be it." - breakingbourbon.com

Small volumes of this sought after American Rye continue to trickle into the country. The super-high rye content combined with up to 18 months finishing in x-Plantation Barbados rum casks makes it all the more exotic. The mashbill will sound familiar to rye completionists - 95% rye and 5% malted barley - the signature blend you’ll find in ryes from Bulleit, Dickel, and just about everyone else in the business who’s sourcing whiskey from Indiana. It's also well known that Angel's Envy have a reputation for trail blazing and innovation. This edition is no exception. Master Distiller, Lincoln Henderson's artful barrelling turns what might have been just another six year old into something quite special. Bottled at 100 proof for extra punch, you'll find it different to almost every other rye on the market.

Other reviews... The folks at Angel’s Envy once again push the envelope... Vibrant, spicy rye notes (cinnamon and mint) are tamed by rich maple syrup, graham cracker crust, nutty toffee, candy floss, subtle tropical fruit, and creamy vanilla. Warm, spicy, rummy finish. This is a mood whiskey—not one I would drink every day—but the flavors marry nicely and the sweetness tames this high-testosterone rye whiskey. Bonus points for uniqueness. Editor's Choice. 90 points - John Hansell (Summer 2013) - whiskyadvocate.com

...This honey-hued rye has a remarkable aroma, melding cookie dough, hazelnut and marzipan. The same luscious flavors show up on the palate, rich and sweet, leading into a confected finish of Nutella sprinkled with nutmeg and cinnamon. The sugar-and-spice effect is due to 18 months finishing time in casks that first held Cognac, then Caribbean rum.  94 points - wineenthusiast.com

...That spin in rum casks really does a number on what would likely otherwise be a perfectly drinkable yet undistinguished rye. It starts with a nose of intense baking spices — gingerbread, cinnamon, and coconut notes. The body has more where that came from. Sip and you’ll get chewy vanilla caramels, banana, marshmallow, and just the barest hints of spicy rye grains on the back end. It’s very sweet, but not overpowering, a good balance of the more dessert-like flavors you’ll find in both rum and whiskey. It’s a bit hot for drinking straight, but seasoned whiskey enthusiasts won’t mind. A splash of water cools things down but doesn’t dull the flavor... I’m really enjoying it neat as an after dinner sipper, but wouldn’t dream of trying to put it in a Manhattan. - drinkhacker.com