Michter's US*1 Kentucky Straight Rye

What is the deal with that alcohol percentage -- trying to squeeze an extra bottle or two out of every single barrel? Don't cut this down any further, please! Happily, despite the relatively low ABV, this rye has a pleasing, oily quality. The oddity of it is that it struck me as more of a high-rye bourbon rather than a low-rye rye, if that makes any sense. As a rye, it has to be at least 51% rye but, if I had to guess, it can't be much beyond 51%. It has all of the classic bourbon scents of vanilla, toasted oak, and caramel, and then follows up with those flavors on the palate as well. The rye emerges on the tongue after a sip or two, and certainly presents itself on the finish. This was an unexpected surprise, and is the most bourbon-like rye that I've had to date. If you're really more of a bourbon drinker than a rye drinker, Michter's might be the "missing link" that leads you to become a fan of the latter. Priced at $40-45, I'd suggest opting for a high-rye bourbon instead, like Four Roses Single Barrel. Among comparably priced ryes, Lot No. 40 (a Canadian, 100% rye whiskey) is better, as is Sazerac.