Distillery: Barber Lee Spirits
Proof: 90
Age: aged for at least 2 years
Mashbill: 100% Malted Rye
BACKGROUND: Barber Lee Single Malt Rye is quite a unique expression being that it is a single malt, yet the malted grain is rye. The reason for this is because it is said to be quite a challenge to make an enjoyable single malt rye. Most single malts on the market are scotches made with malted barley, but Barber Lee took the idea and went on their own. Malted Rye is known to become quite sticky and hard wo work with when making a mash, most distilleries will mix in enzymes or add malted barley, but not at Barber Lee, who are proud to proclaim their whiskey “is painstakingly crafted the hard way: 100% rye and 100% a unique whiskey experience.”
NOSE: The nose opens with a strong bold spiced sweetness that I was able to pick up on before I even poured the whiskey in the glass itself. Notes of cinnamon, peaches, molasses, and that rye bread scent marry wonderfully. (22/25)
PALATE: The single malt rye flavoring really makes a stand when it comes to the palate. A wonderful tingleys hot cinnamon coats your mouth, but not in an overpowering way. Notes of creamy vanilla, brown sugar, and a light fruity flavoring. (32/40)
FINISH: As you swallow each sip the creaminess fades as that malted rye flavor starts to take over again leaving your taste buds just waiting for more. (22/25)
VALUE: For $45 this is a wonderfully unique bottle that has room in any whiskey drinkers collection. (7/10)
Overall: 83/100
FINAL THOUGHTS: After getting the nose I wasn’t sure what to expect with this dram, but I was pleasantly surprised with the result. The perfect balance between heat and flavor. Spicy and creamy in the best way, If you like spiced whiskey this is a great pick for you!
Slightly Better Whiskey: Whistle Pig 15
Equal Whiskey: Elijah Craig Straight Rye
Slightly Worse Whiskey: George Dickel Rye
Tell us what you think and give us some feedback
Scoring Legend:
96-100: The perfect dram, juice of the gods
90-95: Near perfect, truly incredible whiskey
85-89: Amazing whiskey, will always try to keep a backup bottle of this
80-84: Very good, some minor flaws here or there
75-79: Good, quite enjoyable to drink, Will try and keep a bottle on the shelf
70-74: Solid, wouldn’t go out of my way to get this
60-69: Decent, would offer this up to non whiskey drinkers
50-59: Not my cup of tea
Below 50: Give away