Alberta Distillers Ltd. have been making some of the most lauded rye whiskey for quite some time now, yet have gotten little credit. Beloved rye brands like Whistlepig and Lock, Stock, and Barrel have been quietly sourcing their stuff from them for years, and have largely been accepting all of the credit as well. No doubt those labels bring plenty to the end quality of the product, but the fact that Alberta Distillers' own brand has gone without as much popularity (though they have certainly garnered critical praise) is strange indeed, for that same signature is all over it.
This cask strength offering is made from 100% rye, and is bottled uncut and unfiltered at 63.7% abv. On the nose, you get robust oak, vanilla, honey, and fresh berries. The palate asserts its proof, with plenty of spice - baking spices for sure, but also black pepper and cayenne. Truly spicy! But that's not all, as there are also lush notes of dark chocolate, black currant, mint, and espresso. The finish is big and spicy as well, lingering on the spices and mint.
