Alberta Premium Canadian Rye Whisky
40% ABV
$25
Website
We would like to thank Alberta Distillers and Multiply for sending us a sample to review.
What the Distillery Says
TORONTO, March 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Alberta Distillers Ltd, one of the first distilleries to create a true 100% rye whisky, are proud to announce the introduction of their signature core expression, Alberta® Premium to the U.S. for the first time. This stateside launch follows the successful relaunch of the highly coveted Alberta® Premium Cask Strength Rye into the U.S. in 2021. The premium 100% Canadian rye whisky currently boasts the title of the No. 1 selling 100% rye whisky in the world, as outlined by IWSR global sales numbers1, and is a true testament to the skill and craftsmanship of Alberta Distillers, which was named Distillery of the Decade by the 2020 Canadian Whisky Awards.
Crafted and distilled in Calgary, Alberta, Alberta Premium is made from 100% Canadian prairie rye grains grown by local farmers. The grains are uniquely nourished by nutrient-dense, glacier-fed spring water from the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The result is a perfectly balanced whisky with unique nuances of flavor that are influenced by the natural climate and environment in which it is made.
“We were thrilled by the response to our re-introduction of cask strength rye whisky to the U.S. last year, and this year we wanted to offer U.S. fans the opportunity to get their hands on the liquid we’re best known for,” remarked George Teichroeb, General Manager of Alberta Distillers. “Alberta Premium showcases exactly what true Canadian rye whisky can be, and we’re proud to continue the tradition of producing the gold standard for Canadian spirits and using 100% rye grains to craft this distinguished liquid.”
You can taste the great quality in every bottle of this distinctive and award-winning whisky*, which has earned high accolades such as Gold at the 2021 International Spirits Challenge, Platinum at the 2021 SIP Awards, and Excellent/Highly Recommended at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in 2019. Best enjoyed neat with a drop of water, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, such as an Old Fashioned, this coveted whisky is packaged in an eye-catching, faceted glass bottle and features the following characteristics:
Alberta Premium will begin to hit shelves this month with a SRP of $24.99 for a 750ml bottle. This winning whisky continues to set the standard for premium rye whiskies, and as demand grows for Alberta Premium products, U.S. whisky fans can rest assured there’s more to come from Alberta Distillers in the months to come. For more information and to keep up to date on the latest news, follow Alberta Premium on Instagram and Facebook, or visit our websites at www.albertadistillers.com and adl75.ca, and visit us on social media at our Instagram and Facebook.
An explosive taste that is bold with its own unique earthy character, made with 100% Canadian Prairie Rye and aged for a minimum of 5 years, Alberta Premium is the original 100% rye.
Tasting Notes
An authentic prairie rye, this whisky has a rich gold colour, and aromas of banana, toffee and light spice. Expect the flavour to be mellow and smoky, with a finish of vanilla and spice.
What Gary Says
Nose: Cedar, vanilla cotton candy, grassy note with a hint of caramel.
Palate: Sweet with vanilla, maple candies, light caramel, nutmeg, honey and a hint of green apple cider.
Finish: Short to moderate in length with vanilla, green apples and gentle spice.
Comments: Compared to American rye (whether barely legal 51% rye mashbill or higher), this is quite a bit different – and is more gentle and mellow. I loved the Cask Strength Limited Editions (2020 & 2021). I wish this was a higher ABV than 40%, as this is a bit more mild than I prefer in a rye, but it is tasty and gives a different perspective on the grain – which is always welcomed. This has a longer finish than I expected as well.
Rating: Stands Out
1 IWSR 2013-2020; 2020 Case volumes: 336k 9-liter cases; June 30, 2021