High West Rendezvous Rye

I hated this at first. It tasted like pickles and lemon...but after a week it’s really grown on me! I’m a big fan of their double rye and tend to like sweeter whiskey. Regardless, this one grows on you in all it’s sour glory.

Pretty mild nose of dill, ginger, clove, citrus, rolled oats, and a tinge of ethanol. Palate opens with butterscotch and honey transitioning to orange peel and a woodsy oak in the mid-palate, but then cuts right to the finish. Flavors aren’t particularly rich or punchy; they are just kind of “there”. Spicy medium length finish features black pepper, cinnamon, anise, and dill with a kiss of mint. Mouthfeel is light and soft. A “sweet and spicy” rye that isn’t particularly herbal, this makes good showing with no real flaws, but also doesn’t knock my socks off. Which brings me to the price; at $58 this is overpriced for a “just fine” experience. High West Double Rye is a bolder, more herbal, and ultimately more interesting whiskey for about half the price. Misses the re-buy mark for me.

Strong burn start to finish