Aroma - this is quite nice. I’ve never had pumpernickel bread so I have no idea what that is supposed to smell like. Big caramel, toffee, and apple notes, ginger bread. I’m finding this to have more sweet notes than those traditional rye notes (i.e. cinnamon, mint, etc). There is the slight baking spices note reminding me of a Fall candle. Some darker fruits are coming through as it opens up. Again, this is nice. Really liking this complexity. Taste - Man. First thing that jumps out as me is the viscosity. Really damn good. Wish the finish was a tad longer but its still solid. As for the flavors, I’m getting an interesting bread note which I can only guess is that pumpernickel. Very unique and I actually find this very intriguing. There’s a slight bubblegum note on the finish with just a dash of cinnamon, and baking spices. The nose is far more complex that the palate. But that is fine because the balance here is really really good. Overall- this is definitely a must have on hand. It’s so unique, drinks like a bourbon lovers rye. Found it for $35.. normally goes for $40… drinks closer to $45-$50 range. 4.35

Nose- Rye, vanilla, caramel, sour apples, something earthy (maybe the rye?), anise Palate- Medium to thin mouthfeel. Rye, orange oils, sour apples again, vanilla, a touch heavy on the ethanol for proof, caramel, nutmeg, cinnamon, barrel char Finish- ethanol, rye, orange oils, anise, sour apples Overall- Really tasty and a little different than most ryes I have. I assume that is due to the dark pumpernickel rye they are using. While the tasting notes are not too crazy, I rarely get sour apples on a bourbon or rye, that’s something typically get with Scotches. The only thing that holds this back for me is it drinks a bit hotter than proof. I assume that is due to age, but I applaud Middle West for doing something a little different while not trying to reinvent the wheel. While I often drink this neat, this is incredible in a whiskey sour or a sazerac.

Complex, a lot of flavors going on. Different than most ryes, but in a good way. Full, rich, carmel-ish. Almost chewable. Hard to describe... But hard to resist...

Floral and red fruit nose. Black pepper spice palate with subtle smoke. Lasting spice finish. Unique and bold flavors throughout.