Our latest rye whiskey release is a bold yet nuanced expression of American rye, showcasing five years of thoughtful aging in 2 char new American oak barrels. Distilled in a single pass through our 3-plate brandy column still, this straight rye whiskey brings the full character of its high-rye mash bill—72% Dark Northern Rye, 17% Unmalted Barley, and 11% Malted Barley—into vivid focus.
The aroma opens with an interplay of light florals and warm grain, quickly followed by a savory-sweet combination reminiscent of salted playdough and a whisper of red wine tannin. On the palate, you’ll taste initial notes of cinnamon spice and Maraschino liqueur that give way to deeper, earthy flavors of cherry pit and almond paste, evoking the heart of a well-aged fruit tart. The grain-forward base adds depth with distinct tones of pumpernickel bread, interwoven with stewed prune and raisin. The result is a beautifully integrated sip that balances sweetness, spice, and dark grain character. With a medium body and a surprisingly soft texture, this rye offers an easygoing richness that glides across the palate. The structure is firm enough to support its robust flavor profile, while the finish is clean and warming, lingering with the familiar heat of cinnamon red hot candy, tapering into subtle residual spice and a faint echo of dark fruit.
While sophisticated enough for sipping, this rye is bold and expressive enough to shine in classic cocktails. It stands up confidently in a Sazerac, adds depth to a Manhattan, and layers beautifully in a Vieux Carré. Whether served neat, on the rocks, or mixed, this latest release of Distiller’s Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey is a true testament to our grain-to-glass approach and commitment to craft.
MORE ABOUT DISTILLER’S RESERVE WHISKEYS
These premium Oregon Straight whiskeys are fermented and distilled in-house at our distillery in Southeast Portland. Each one spends over three years aging in new charred American oak barrels to mellow and enhance their flavor. With the exception of a few West Coast bottle shops, our Distiller’s Reserve Whiskeys are only available at the New Deal Bottle Shop.
