Anchor Distilling’s Hirsch brand is getting a line extension with the launch of Hirsch High Rye 8 Years Old. The whiskey is a blend made from two MGP mash bills – “one with 21% rye and another with 36% rye, resulting in a high rye content that adds spiced character while balancing the sweet notes of corn sourced from Indiana and Ohio. The oak barrels are a #4 char around the base and a #2 char at the head; the whiskey is barreled at 60% ABV.”

As a reminder, the original A.H. Hirsch distillery, Schaefferstown, was shut down in 1989. Anchor revived the name, but it doesn’t have any relation to the old, iconic A.H. Hirsch Reserve 16 Years Old. The new Hirsch 8 Years Old joins Hirsch Small Batch, a NAS bourbon.

Grouse about MGP sourcing all you want: This is a great little bourbon that’s drinking perfectly today. The nose is classic bourbon: ample vanilla, butterscotch, baked bread, Christmas spice, and hints of both cherry and barrel char. Hints of spearmint emerge in time. On the palate, well-sweetened caramel corn notes kick things off, followed by notes of chocolate, coconut cream, and gentle cinnamon notes. The finish is sweet and forgiving, a long, slow meltdown into a satisfying and lovely little conclusion.

92 proof.

A / $52 / anchordistilling.com [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]

Hirsch High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey 8 Years Old

$52

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

BUY IT NOW