I like how this is marked as rare on here, and yet I've seen it in almost every store in the Midwest for just about the same price. I've had this brand's flagship bourbon, and it was fairly good, right on the cusp of being something really special. I am expecting similar things out of this, but with far fewer rye whiskeys out there to compare to, I do have some higher expectations (for really no reason at all). Starting off strong with a 5 year age statement, and hoping that the rye shines strong since 90 proof isn't a whole lot to bring to the table. Medium-dark color, impressive and inviting. Honestly and truly, it's mostly just rye, as a grain, that is on the nose. Getting past this, there are some typical notes from a moderately charred barrel, but so far this is a simple offering that should be exciting, given how few rye whiskeys truly honor the grain. A few more sniffs bring out very faint essences of tropical fruit and bread. The flavor is just as "normal" as the smell was, with rye grain up front, both spicy yet somewhat mellow, and just a touch too much malt right behind it (which is strange, given there is nothing but rye on the mash bill). There is oak after the grain, but this is younger or less charred than I thought it would be from the scent, and doesn't give as much of the vanilla and caramel that would benefit this whiskey after spending 5 years in those barrels. The finish is what every rye whiskey should be: a mouth full of cinnamon and tingling gums. This could have been elevated so much more if the proof were higher, but I'll submit to say that this is indeed more approachable for a flagship product. This is a great honor to the rye crop, and a really good alternative to the other approachable, middle shelf competitors that you find in most stores. It does make me want to taste any older ryes this brand may have, but only if they are priced for consuming. I don't remember what I paid for this, but like most craft whiskeys, it was probably overpriced for what it is. Get this priced like Wild Turkey Rye or Bulleit Rye and I'd choose this every time (almost).