The first addition to the Col. E.H. Taylor line in two years takes the brand back to rye, a product we haven’t seen from Taylor since its inaugural rye release in 2012. With this expression, Taylor pushes the abv to a whopping 63%. The mashbill is presumably the same as standard Taylor Rye — exclusively rye and malted barley, probably in the realm of 65%/35%, based on internet scuttle. No age statement is offered.

Spoiler up front: This is a real delight.

The nose is sharp and boozy — as is to be expected — and bold with classic rye aromatics. Caraway seed, toasted rye bread, and pipe tobacco all provide a racy, spicy base from which to start. From there, orange peel emerges — and strongly, adding a second layer that’s heady with fruit. The whiskey’s not shy with its barrel char component, providing more complexity in the form of licorice-touched wood.

On the palate, the fruit and herbal elements commingle delightfully, with toasty char enveloping the experience. It’s undoubtedly a boozy experience, but surprisingly not unapproachable even at full strength. While peppery and sharp, it’s tempered by an ample sweetness which had me thinking more of bourbon than rye. Perhaps at this proof, the lines become blurry. Everything builds as the finish approaches — more spice, more fruit, more char. Ultimately it’s the peppery, herbal, spice-forward notes that keep rolling the most into the conclusion, fading out on a light note of menthol.

Want all that flavor without so much heat? Add as much water as you’d like and watch a soothing brown butter quality build, further tempering all the pepper and spice.

Expect this to be another highly sought-after release that inevitably sells for well above the wholly reasonably MSRP.

126 proof.

A- / $78 / buffalotracedistillery.com 

Col. E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof Rye

$78

9

Rating

9.0/10