I do not usually drink Whiskey, or Whisky for that matter, straight-up (for one of my 'Happy Exceptions,' check out Johnnie Walker's Celebratory Blend.) It's almost always with a Mixer, such as Ginger Ale; or as a Duo. So I made a 'Rock and Rye,' with Abosolo Nixta Licor De Elote as a substitute for the 'Rock (simple syrup.)' I added a couple of splashes of Copper & Kings Bitters. What can I say, it was excellent. The peppery spiciness cuts through even an eclectic taste as the Abosolo! I do have to say, though, it was less like clove to me; more like Allspice. Anyway it got me through watching Tony 'El Cucuy' Ferguson getting molly-whopped on Saturday night, so no complaints!

I love this bottle simply because it's different. An easy sipper for me. On the nose it's like a loaf of rye bread just waiting to be devoured. The pallet so unique, it's got character like I'm biting into a piece of buttered rye bread that's on the spicy side but is a delicate spice. The finish, delicate, slightly warm and short tempting you to go back for another sip or another pour.

Candy Apple, Caramel, Mint… Super smooth.

4.0 Stars - Fantastic, multiple 750 ml bottles Happy trails to you, until we meet again. This review is for the old recipe. Alas, we will never meet again. This was one of my “Go To” whiskies for many years. Affordable, perfect ABV, and a flavor profile that was a nice contrast with classic bourbons. Very botanical, almost a cross between rye bread and gin. The new recipe is ok. There is more continuity in the flavor profile than I expected. But it is younger, thinner, with a few rough edges. Probably 2.5 stars, which puts it in the ‘very nice’ category for me but not a repeat purchase. It has been surprisingly hard to find a replacement with a similar profile. The closest I found is New Riff BIB Rye. Willet 4 Year Rye shares some similar traits, but is next level excellent (and impossible to find).