Woodinville Straight Rye Whiskey Aged 8 Years
50% ABV
$130
Website
We would like to thank Woodinville Whiskey for sending us a sample to review.
What the Distillery Says
Woodinville 100% Rye Aged 8 Years. This is truly handcrafted whiskey. Planted in the Fall, rye grain lies dormant all winter long under a blanket of snow. When growth resumes, during the scorching summer months on the Omlin family farm in Quincy, Washington, the crop is hand irrigated. Nearly a full year after planting, at harvest, Arnie and son, Joel work long hours gathering the grain, which is then trucked across the mountains to Woodinville for milling, mashing and distillation. After distillation, the whiskey is transported back to barrelhouses in Quincy, where it rests in custom-specified, long-seasoned, toasted and charred American Oak barrels.
“None of this is efficient, but it’s 100% worth it,” say Woodinville co-founder Orlin Sorensen. “We are laser-focused on quality, and if it takes an extra step or two on the journey, we’ll absolutely forge that path. We’re here to make the best craft whiskey in America, and we’re excited to share this Woodinville 100% Rye Aged 8 Years.”
Woodinville 100% Rye Aged 8 Years Tasting Notes: Dark molasses, clove and brown sugar on the nose, followed by cinnamon, vanilla, dark honey and touch of dried cranberry on the palate. It offers a long warm peppery finish with a dry oaky grip in your mouth.
What Gary Says
Nose: Rich and spicy with cloves, brown sugar, figs, red berries, oak and a hint of cola.
Palate: Red berries (raspberry and cranberry), cinnamon, cloves, honey, orange with a hint of lime.
Finish: Moderate in length with oak, citrus and pepper spice.
Comments: The color on this is insanely dark for only 8 years old and 50% ABV; this looks like it is either much older and higher proof. It definitely punches above its weight. The age shows, not just in the wood influence but in how the flavors knit together. The rye spice is present, and that cola and lime note were unexpected. While not reinventing the category, it’s a damn good representation, and a must try for rye fans out there. I’d try it neat, as it sings at that proof and doesn’t need any water.