Elijah Craig Kentucky Straight Rye

Dutch cocoa, leather, vanilla cake frosting, plenty of oak just like the bourbon, creamed corn, walnuts, chinese cinnamon, subtle dill, black pepper, anjou pear. Not bad, a bit on the drier side. Heaven hill has a signature flavor palate across the lower and mid shelf products, this one being a bit on the nuttier side.

3.5 stars - Very Good; 750 ml bottle This is a delightful find. The first several pours were nothing special, but with time this has opened up nicely. Spicy and herbal. Spice is from the oak and rye, slight hint of cinnamon. Herbal nature skews heavily towards mint. Fits right in the profile of the ryes from Michter’s, Willet, and New Riff. Those are better, but this is 30-50% lower cost. At the price, Knob Creek Rye is probably the closest competition, but I like Elijah better.

This rye has all the characteristic qualities I love in a rye. Great spice level, with enough proof to keep the hints of vanilla and rich roasted caramel-like grains forefront.