Lock Stock & Barrel 16 Year
Straight Rye Whiskey
53.5% ABV
$160
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What the Producer Says
Lock Stock & Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey is double distilled from a rare mash bill of 100 percent rye grain. A “robust cut” is selected by master distillers, then the unfiltered spirit is aged in new charred American Oak barrels in cold weather. Lock Stock & Barrel 16-year is a tightly woven fabric of aromatics, with notes that suggest roasted acorns, sour grass, wild cherries, stewed blackberry, dried pear and sassafras.
What Gary Says
Nose: Christmas spice, cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, hints of clove and anise, sour oak, subtle orange zest, honey, bit of brown sugar and cocoa.
Palate: Chewy and warm mouthfeel, chocolate orange, cinnamon, nutmeg, honey, mint, pepper and oak.
Finish: Long and damp with citrus, white pepper and honey.
Comments: This is a really nice spicy rye! The oak is there as you’d expect with 16 years, but it isn’t overoaked. A bit of water brings out some eggnog on the nose, and orange bitters on the palate. While I miss the days of 7 year cask strength rye for $50 or less, in this market coming in at $10 a year for high proof rye with age is reasonable.