Pikesville 110 Proof Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml)

"A rye of extraordinary excellence. And if there was an award just for the most salivating delivery of any whiskey, then this would win hands down." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024

Following the huge success of Heaven Hill's Rittenhouse 100 proof Rye, the re-invigorated Pikesville brand has made a similar comeback. First produced in Maryland in the 1890s, Pikesville was shuttered by Prohibition. As the rest of the industry closed up, the brand reemerged to become the last standing Maryland expression. The contemporary iteration is drawn from extra-aged barrels stored in prime warehouse locations. Whether you’re a straight rye fan or simply love the unique flavour it adds to cocktails like the Manhattan or Old-Fashioned, this 110-proof, six-year-old powerhouse will take your pleasure to new heights, beginning with piercing, peppery rye aromas including a minty edge that doesn't give up, complexed by unripe granny-smith, grainy accents and finally, sweeter vanillas. Vibrant, chewy and sustained, the flavours roll out in a text-book, fat, oily rye delivery, the controlled spices tempered by fresh oak and apple mint. This vivacious style clearly builds off Rittenhouse but takes it to the next level. Although the mash bill isn't stated, it's “at least 51% rye,” (corn and barley making up the remainder) and apparently two years older than Rittenhouse BIB - which would account for the step up in refinement. 55% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Pikesville finally fills a gap in the marketplace by being a readily available, easy to drink high proof rye with mass appeal that deserves a spot on everyone’s must try list. This is a fantastic addition to Heaven Hill’s rye lineup. While the proof is high, it serves to amplify the fantastic flavor profile rather than impose a lot of burn, making it very enjoyable neat. Additionally, while Pikesville contains a more fruit-forward flavor profile due to the fact that this is most likely a barely-legal rye, the high yet manageable proof helps add to the illusion that  this is a spicier rye than it really is. This should allow both bourbon lovers and hardcore rye lovers alike to appreciate it. On paper this may seem simplistic in nature, but in execution, this is one of the best everyday ryes you can currently find on the shelf. Don’t hesitate to give this premium rye a try. - breakingbourbon.com

"...one of the aromas of the year... after that nose, the delivery just had to be majestic. And it is... those wonderful, bustling, fizzing spices... The most stunning of ryes and the best from Heaven Hill for some time. 97.5 points- Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2016

Double Gold at the 2015 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

...Heaven Hill’s 80-proof standard Pikesville is a summer favorite, so I was eager to try this. A woody depth to it at 6 years old: 110 proof-hot, stewed plum and horehound candy, and sizzling rye spice behind it. It's a jawbreaker: full and hot in the mouth, with sweet grassy spice, bitter rye grain as it progresses, and crackling sugar near the end, just before it all smooths into a savory layered finish. Exciting ride, great ending. 89 points - whiskyadvocate.com, (Fall 2015) Reviewed by: Lew Bryson